Protein-Packed Energy Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (or any nut butter)
• 1/2 cup ground flaxseed
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup chocolate protein powder such as LA Whey Gold
• 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground flaxseed, chocolate protein powder, chia seeds, and unsweetened shredded coconut if using. Stir until well mixed.

2. Add Wet Ingredients:

   • Add the natural peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined. The mixture should be sticky and hold together when pressed.

3. Incorporate Chocolate Chips:

   • Gently fold in the mini dark chocolate chips.

4. Form the Bites:

   • Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

5. Chill:

   • Refrigerate the energy bites for at least 30 minutes to set. Once set, transfer them to an airtight container.

6. Store:

   • Keep the energy bites in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Breakdown (per bite, assuming 20 bites):

• Calories: 110
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 6g
• Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 35mg
• Potassium: 110mg

Nutritional Notes:

• High Protein: Each bite contains 4g of protein, thanks to the combination of peanut butter, protein powder, flaxseed, and chia seeds.
• Fibre-Rich: With 3g of fibre per bite, these snacks can help keep you full and support digestive health.
• Healthy Fats: The nuts, seeds, and dark chocolate provide healthy fats, which are essential for overall health.
• Low Sugar: Using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup keeps the sugar content moderate, providing just enough sweetness without excess.

Tips:

• Customisation: Feel free to customise the recipe with your favourite ingredients. Swap out the peanut butter for almond or cashew butter, or add dried fruit for extra flavour.
• Vegan Option: To make these bites vegan, use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your protein powder is plant-based.

Enjoy these delicious, protein-packed energy bites as a convenient snack anytime you need a quick boost!