These Cinnamon Roll Energy Bites are a tasty snack that combines oats, nut butter, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. They are sweet, chewy, and perfect for a quick pick-me-up!
Making these bites is so easy; it feels like cheating! I like to keep them in the fridge for a grab-and-go treat. Plus, they taste like dessert—who doesn’t love that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are the base for the energy bites. They give texture and fiber. If you’re gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats, or try quick oats for a smoother texture.
Almond Flour: This adds a nice nutty flavor and fine texture. You can substitute it with coconut flour, but use less since coconut flour absorbs more liquid. About 1/4 cup should work.
Nut Butter: Almond butter is fantastic, but peanut butter is just as good if you prefer. For nut-free diets, sunflower seed butter is a great alternative and works well in the recipe.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both sweeteners give a nice touch of sweetness and moisture. Agave syrup is a fine substitute if you want a vegan option.
Powdered Sugar: This is for the glaze, but feel free to use a sugar substitute if you’re cutting back on sugar. Just adjust the amount of liquid in the glaze to maintain the right texture.
How Do You Ensure Your Energy Bites Hold Their Shape?
Getting the right consistency for the energy bites is key. Here’s how you can do it:
- Start by pulsing your oats into a coarse flour. This will help bind the bits together.
- When you mix in your nut butter and sweeteners, ensure everything is well combined and sticky. If it feels too dry, a splash more almond milk can help.
- After rolling the mixture into balls, give them some time in the fridge. This cooling step helps them firm up and makes them easier to enjoy later.
With these tips, you’re all set to make delicious energy bites that are perfect for a quick snack! Enjoy the delightful cinnamon flavors that make these bites irresistible!
Cinnamon Roll Energy Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 1 cup rolled oats (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup almond butter or peanut butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons almond milk or any milk of your choice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes until you can enjoy these delicious bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by adding the rolled oats to a food processor. Pulse them until they turn into a coarse flour; this will help your energy bites hold together nicely. Just a few pulses should do the trick!
2. Mix in Dry Ingredients:
Next, add the almond flour, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt to the food processor. Give it a few more pulses to combine everything evenly.
3. Add Wet Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the wet ingredients! Pour in the almond butter (or peanut butter), maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil. Process the mixture until everything is fully combined and it starts to clump together. If it feels too dry, don’t hesitate to add a tiny splash of almond milk and mix again.
4. Roll into Bites:
Scoop out small amounts of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place the rolled bites onto a lined tray or plate. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; they will still taste great!
5. Make the Glaze:
For the delicious glaze, mix the powdered sugar with almond milk in a small bowl until it’s smooth and thick enough to coat the bites. Adjust the amount of almond milk if needed for the right consistency.
6. Glaze the Bites:
Drizzle the glaze over each energy bite. You can use a spoon for this or dip the tops of the bites right into the glaze for a thicker coating. Sprinkle a few extra oats on top for a nice look!
7. Chill and Enjoy:
Place the tray in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the energy bites firm up. After chilling, they’re ready to enjoy or store them in an airtight container for later snacking. Enjoy your cinnamon-scented bites that are both delicious and nutritious!
Can I Use a Different Nut Butter?
Absolutely! While almond butter gives a lovely flavor, you can easily use peanut butter, sunflower seed butter, or any nut butter of your choice. Just keep in mind that the taste may vary slightly based on your substitution.
How Do I Store Leftover Energy Bites?
Store any leftover energy bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just let them thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
Can I Make These Energy Bites Vegan?
Yes! Simply replace the honey with maple syrup for a fully vegan option. All the other ingredients are already plant-based!
What Can I Use Instead of Almond Flour?
If you don’t have almond flour, you can use oat flour or finely ground oats as a substitute. Just remember that the texture might change slightly, but they will still taste delicious!