Easy No-Bake Oatmeal Energy Bites

Easy No-Bake Oatmeal Energy Bites. This recipe is easy, kid-friendly, and can be made allergy-friendly!

As a busy parent, I’m always on the lookout for quick and easy snacks that my little ones will actually eat. These oatmeal energy bites have become a favorite in our household – my kids will eat them plus they love helping me make them! (we seriously eat the batter like cookie dough – without the raw egg!)

These oatmeal energy bites are simple to make, taste great, and are perfect for the whole family. They are bite-sized and ideal for grabbing on your way out the door or enjoying as an after-school snack. This is a great back-to-school recipe for kids and busy families that you can enjoy all year round. If you’re a fan of chewy and sweet treats that don’t require special ingredients or long baking times, these no-bake oatmeal energy bites are just what you’re looking for!

Plus, they are easy to customize with whatever your favorite mix-ins are. I am allergic to peanuts/tree nuts and dairy and use sunflower butter in this recipe.

Just follow this simple formula:

  • Oats (old-fashioned)
  • Nut or Seed Butter (anything goes) or alternative for food allergies
  • Sweetener of choice (liquid like honey or agave)
  • Add-ins like dried fruit, dates, nuts, flax meal, or mini chocolate chips

Benefits of No-Bake Oatmeal Energy Bites

These little bites are not just delicious—they come with plenty of added benefits:

  • Quick and Easy: No baking required means you can whip these up in no time.
  • Kid-Friendly: The simple and clean ingredients make this a great recipe for kids. Plus, getting kids involved in the kitchen has numerous benefits. It makes them more willing to try new foods, eat more nutritious foods, and improves their relationship with food.
  • Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to suit dietary needs or taste preferences.
  • Nutrient-Packed: With 5g of fiber to start the day, these bites are great for happy tummies!

Getting Kids Involved

These no-bake oatmeal energy bites are a fantastic recipe to make with kids. The ingredients are simple and not-so-messy, which makes the process enjoyable for both you and the little ones. There are multiple benefits to involving kids in the kitchen:

  • Encourages Trying New Foods: Kids are more likely to eat what they’ve had a hand in making.
  • Educational: Teaches them basic cooking skills and the importance of healthy eating.
  • Bonding Time: Cooking together creates lasting memories and strengthens your relationship.
My kids love stirrling these no-bake oatmeal energy bites! (and licking the spoon 😉)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of easy no-bake oatmeal energy bites:

Easy No-Bake Oatmeal Energy Bites

Serving Size:
8 (3 bites per serving)
Time:
15-30 minutes
Difficulty:
Easy, Kid and Teen Friendly

Ingredients

  • Rolled oats (gluten-free, if needed), 1.5 cups
  • Nut or seed butter, 2/3 cups
  • Chia seeds, 3 tbsp
  • Maple syrup or honey, 1-2 tbsp
  • Chocolate chips, 3/4 cup (or another add-in like chopped dry fruit or nuts/seeds)
  • Unsweetened coconut flakes, optional

Directions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl until well mixed. If the batter seems dry, add liquid (such as your preferred milk) one tablespoon at a time.
  2. For easier shaping into small balls, chill the dough for 30 minutes before forming into bite-sized portions.
  3. Using a small ice cream scoop, two spoons, melon baller, or your hands to portion out the mixture into 24 bites.
  4. This recipe yields 24 bites, serving 8-12 people (3 bites per serving)

Tips for Making No-Bake Oatmeal Energy Bites

While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, here are some fun customization ideas to make your oatmeal energy bites even more exciting:

  • Dried Fruits: Add raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots or dates.
  • Spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice for added flavor.
  • Seeds and Nuts: Mix in chia seeds, sunflower seeds, or chopped nuts for a crunchier texture.
  • Protein Boost: Add a scoop of protein powder to turn these bites into protein boosters.

TIP: I like to make a batch with a few different customizations of no-bake oatmeal energy bites, so I’ll double up and divide the batter as shown here. You can do a batch all in one way or you can divide the basic batter before and make different versions.

How to Store Easy No-Bake Oatmeal Energy Bites

Once you have whipped up a batch of these funs snacks (or quick breakfast), how do you store them? Here are some tips to help keep your energy bites safe and fresh.

1. Refrigerate in an airtight container: The best way to store no-bake oatmeal energy bites is by placing them in an airtight container (like Rubbermaid Food Storage container) and storing them in the refrigerator. This will help keep them fresh for up to a week.

2. Freeze for longer storage: If you want to make a big batch of energy bites and have them last even longer, consider freezing them. Place the energy bites in an airtight container or freezer bag (I love these reusable freezer bags!) and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply thaw it out in the refrigerator before eating.

Conclusion

These easy no-bake oatmeal energy bites are an easy, healthy, and yummy addition to any back-to-school or snack routine. Also perfect for busy mornings, post-workout snacks, or an afternoon pick-me-up. They are easily customizable to meet various preferences and dietary needs.

We’d love to see your creations! If you try these no-bake oatmeal energy bites, let us know or tag us on social media:

  • Facebook/Instagram: @fromthestartnutrition
  • Twitter: @fromthestartrdn

Want more recipes like this? Subscribe to our mailing list and get all of our latest blog updates, recipes, tips, free resources, and more!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    beth conlon dietitian nutritionist new jersey

    Hi! I’m Beth Conlon, PhD, MS, RDN


    I'm so glad you're here!

    As a Pediatric and Family Nutrition Expert and mom of 4, I truly understand the ups and downs of feeding children. This is a space where you can get tips and tricks that will help you with any feeding challenges, from picky eaters to eating disorders, and more. Additionally, I'm excited to share recipes that are perfect for families.

    I can't wait to share this journey with you. If you need extra assistance, please contact me today and we can explore ways to work together.

    Recent Posts

    Frozen Yogurt Bark with Berries

    Are you searching for an easy, nutritious snack that your kids will actually eat? As a pediatric and family dietitian and mom of four little ones, I completely understand the…
    Read more

    Easy No-Bake Oatmeal Energy Bites

    Looking for a healthy snack that's quick and easy to make? Try our no-bake oatmeal energy bites! Perfect for grabbing on your way out the door or enjoying as an…
    Read more

    Follow me

    Are you ready to transform mealtimes from chaos to calm?

    Sign-up for my FREE 5-Day Challenge to End Mealtime Battles Right Now!

    You'll Get My Free eGuide + the Support You Need Straight to Your Inbox.

    Copyright 2024 From the Start Nutrition

    Branding & Website by Declet Designs