Seedy Mocha Energy Bites
A new year a new me right? Not likely.
I already work out 3-4x a week, I generally eat decently, my sleep patterns are terrible and have been for years, I read tons as it is, and my weight is fine. Sure I could lose a few pounds here or there, but I’m also known for baking up some mean carbs and sugar concoctions, SOOOO it’s a new year, same old me.
I’m gonna keep eating them cookies and cakes, guys and dolls. I gonna keep bingeing my shows, and I am gonna keep swearing like a pirate and pouring G&Ts along the way. Take me or leave me.
Sorry. Not sorry. And trust me, The same ole’ me is a damned good thing. Just sayin’.
However, I will never, ever discredit anyone who is trying to improve upon their Self. Kudos to you, I say. You are my inspiration! I will be your biggest cheerleader and champion and do whatever I can to help you towards your goal!
Use the best possible and highest quality ingredients!
So for those looking to clean up snack time and health up their yummies, these wee bambinos are just what the snack doctor ordered! This recipe hits the spot: it’s fueled with protein from protein powder, nut butter and hearty oats to keep you feeling fuller longer, and they get a burst of happiness with chocolate chips, a nice crunch from the seeds, and a splash of jazz with coffee!
These protein bites are a staple in our house when my kids are home; both of my kids are Division I skiers, so protein shakes and snacks and healthy meals rule when they’re home over breaks so they can be ready for their workouts and their races. The nice thing about these bites is that you can easily whip up a double batch, and just store them in an airtight container in the fridge to have on hand whenever! And even the youngest of kids can help make these with ease.
This is one of those adapt to your tastes recipes. Don’t have chocolate protein powder? Add a few tsp of cocoa powder to your unflavored or vanilla. I’m pretty sure if you use GF oats and a plant based protein powder, like Juice Plus (links below), you’ll have GF energy balls! Don’t have honey? Try maple syrup or maybe agave (I’ve not tried agave, so I can’t say how it will act as an aid in the binding). Use whatever nut/seed butter you want. Combine them! Don’t want chocolate chips? Don’t add, but you’ll miss out on a layer of happiness, and use the highest quality chocolate chips you can - it will not only taste better, but the darker the chocolate and the higher the quality, the better the health factor!! I use Guittard (links below). Don’t have pumpkin seeds? Use poppy, flax, sunflower, or chia seeds - but you want the crunch from the seeds. You could sub instant coffee for expresso powder.
Make these to your liking! Just run and make these. You’ll be happy you did, and you’ll be one small step closer to healthier snacks!
Healthy & tasty!
Seedy Mocha Energy Bites
Ingredients:
2 scoops chocolate protein powder; I use Juice Plus (highly recommend! see links below)
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup nut butter of choice, but I’ve also made these with maple creme (WOAH! is all I’m going to say!), or if you want to use Nutella and go way over the top…
1 cup old fashioned oats; do not use instant oats
salted pumpkin seeds. If unsalted, you can add a hearty pinch of salt to the recipe or leave it out.
1-2 tsp of Origine Naturals Vanilla
1/4-1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; I use Guittard - high quality dark chocolate - less crap, actually “healthy” chocolate (links below)
1-2 tbsp instant coffee
Directions:
Mix all ingredients in a large bowl until everything is well coated.
Using a scoop (easiest for uniform size) or your hands, roll out 1” balls. You can make them bigger. This is all to preference.
Store in an airtight container with a lid in the fridge. Will last a few weeks if stored properly in the fridge.
ENJOY!
