We go through a lot of protein bars in our house, Rx bars being one of our favorites. I love their simple list of ingredients. Similarly, this is a recipe for a healthy snack that uses a simple list of ingredients and as a bonus, doesn’t involve any baking. It’s mix and go. We keep the energy bites in the freezer because we find them too soft otherwise. They make a great afternoon snack when you’re looking for a touch of sweetness. I use bananas that are overripe; I find they’re sweeter that way.

We almost always have a batch of these in the freezer.

Banana Oat Energy Bites
Recipe adapted from Pumpkin ‘N Spice

1 3/4 cups old-fashioned oats
2 Tablespoons mini chocolate chips
1 Tablespoon chia seeds
1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
2 Tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 very ripe banana, mashed

In a large bowl, combine the oats, chocolate chips, and chia seeds. Set aside.

In a small, microwaveable bowl, add the peanut butter and honey. Microwave for 15-20 seconds, or until peanut butter melts slightly, so that it is easier to stir. Remove from microwave and add in vanilla extract and mashed banana. Stir thoroughly until mixture is smooth.

Pour peanut butter mixture over oat mixture and stir to combine, ensuring all of the oats are covered. If the mixture seems too wet, add 1 tablespoon (or more) of oats, until it comes together.

Place bowl into refrigerator and chill for 15-20 minutes, so that mixture holds together and is easier to shape into balls. Form mixture into small balls. (I use a small cookie scoop.) Freeze and serve straight from the freezer.

One year ago:  InstanEasy Quiche Florentine
Two years ago:  Chocolate Olive Oil Cake
Three years ago:  Easter Egg Cookie Dough Truffles
Four years ago:  Cabbage and Potato Gratin
Five years ago:  Lemon Fusilli with Arugula
Six years ago:  Broccoli, Cheddar and Wild Rice Casserole
Seven years ago:  Olive Garden Bread Sticks
Eight years ago:  Soft Chocolate Cookies with Peanut Butter Frosting
Nine years ago:  Weeknight White Chicken Chili
Ten years ago:  Tofu and Onions in Caramel Sauce
Eleven years ago:  Scallops Provencal
Twelve years ago: Braised Pork Chops