We’re the first to admit that even as registered dietitians and personal trainers, we can relate to our clients who tell us that sometimes in the afternoon they find themselves wanting a lil somethin’, somethin’—a little sweet and satisfying treat. This especially seems to be the case when it’s the kid’s snack time and they’re chomping at the bit for a sweet-tasting snack to take the edge off hunger. Of course, you want to make sure that snack is healthy.
Well, great news! We’ve got you covered—and we’ve got your taste buds and waistline in mind! Look no further because this versatile and all natural “mighty bite” can do it all. If you know you simply need a little sweet bullet of energy you’ll simply whip up this treat for only 65 calories per ball! And if you need a longer lasting boost in the mid-afternoon (or if this will be your kids’ only snack), you’ll add the additional protein in the recipe below. Wholesome, sweet, and low calorie—you can’t go wrong with these tasty treats. Cook them in a ball and they have the consistency of muffins–or go for the No-bake version (a little less sweet, but equally delish!).
More reasons to love this recipe:
The peanut butter, quinoa, and oats: in combination they provide a balance of protein,, carbohydrates and healthy fat– plus fiber to keep your tummy satisfied.
This sweet bite may help lower your cholesterol and prevent certain chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer thanks to the antioxidants particularly in the whole grains.
More bonuses: Peanut butter is a great way to get the antioxidant vitamin E, muscle-friendly potassium, bone-constructing magnesium, and immunity-enhancing vitamin B6. Why buy other sweet-tasting snacks with lots of added sugar and artificial ingredients when you can make a healthier, all natural, and cost friendly versions at home?
Cocoa EnergyBites
(Yields 15 balls)
Ingredients:
1 ½ cup uncooked rolled oats (cannot substitute quick oats)
2 medium bananas (slightly overripe for best flavor )
1 tbsp. agave nectar or honey
2 tbsp. cocoa powder
½ cup uncooked quinoa
¼ cup peanut butter
½ tbsp. coconut oil
2 scoops protein powder (include if you are making the satiating snack version versus the sweet little bite)
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 200 °F, if you’ll be baking these.
Heat peanut butter, coconut oil and honey in a small saucepan, stirring continuously. Do not let the peanut butter mixture reach a simmer. Cook until liquid consistency.
In a large mixing bowl, mash bananas, add quinoa, cocoa powder, and rolled oats to the bowl. Knead all the ingredients together using your hands.
Add the heated peanut butter mixture to the “dough.” Form 1½ inch balls with hands.. Bake for 20 minutes and rotate halfway through. Remove balls from the oven and allow cooling. Baking makes them taste slightly sweeter, however, they don’t need to be baked! Just refrigerate after forming the balls.
These mighty balls stores well for up to 2 weeks (potentially longer but a batch only lasts us about a week—too yummy!)
Nutritional Information without protein powder: per ball
Calories 65; Fat 1g; Saturated Fat 0g; Carbohydrates 11g; Protein 2g; Cholesterol 0mg; Sodium 10mg; Fiber 2g
Nutritional Information: per ball with Chocolate protein powder
Calories 81; Fat 1g; Saturated Fat 0g; Carbohydrates 12g; Protein 7g; Cholesterol 0mg; Sodium 50mg; Fiber 2g
