Save These chewy cherry-coded dark chocolate energy bites are my favorite way to keep healthy snacks ready when cravings hit. Scooping and rolling the mix takes only minutes and no oven is needed—they are perfect for fueling a busy afternoon, a hike, or tucking into a lunchbox. A quick chill sets them just right, making each bite a satisfying blend of tangy cherries, hearty oats, rich dark chocolate, and a light crunch of sea salt.
I first made these bites before a long road trip and they were such a hit I started making double batches—they never last a whole week in my house because everyone grabs them right out of the fridge.
Ingredients
- Rolled oats: gives chewy body and natural fiber pick gluten-free certified oats if needed for allergies
- Almond butter: binds everything together and adds creamy richness stir well before measuring to avoid dry clumps
- Honey or maple syrup: lends natural sweetness and holds the mix choose pure maple syrup for a vegan twist
- Dried tart cherries: adds tangy bite and chewy texture opt for plump unsweetened cherries for best flavor
- Dark chocolate chips: brings deep cocoa flavor use chocolate in the sixty to seventy percent cacao range and chop if chips are on the larger side
- Chia seeds: add crunch and boost fiber plus omega three
- Unsweetened shredded coconut: totally optional but adds a lovely hint of tropical flavor try toasting lightly before mixing in for even more aroma
- Flaky sea salt: finish with a pinch for perfect sweet and salty balance go for a high quality salt for best pop
Instructions
- Combine the Base:
- In a large mixing bowl add your rolled oats almond butter and honey Stir slowly and with patience making sure all oats are coated and the mixture is sticky Press your spoon along the sides of the bowl to help integrate thick almond butter
- Mix In the Additions:
- Pour in your chopped dried cherries dark chocolate chips chia seeds and shredded coconut if using Stir until everything is well distributed and clusters appear evenly studded
- Form the Bites:
- Scoop out about one heaping tablespoon of mixture for each bite Roll each portion between your palms until smooth and round If your mix feels sticky let it sit for a couple minutes to firm up making rolling easier
- Add the Sea Salt:
- Arrange the rolled bites on a tray lined with parchment paper Gently press a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each ball while they are still soft to help the salt stick
- Chill to Set:
- Transfer the tray to your refrigerator and chill at least thirty minutes This helps firm up the bites and brings all the flavors together
Save Of all the components I cannot resist the combination of tart cherries and dark chocolate The smell alone brings me back to making these with my son standing on a chair beside me getting chocolate smudges everywhere and giggling as we taste tested each batch
Storage Tips
Keep the bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week For longer storage freeze in a single layer then transfer to a freezer bag and enjoy straight from frozen or thaw for a few minutes Bites store best layered between parchment to avoid sticking
Ingredient Substitutions
If nut allergies are a concern try sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter Maple syrup works beautifully for a plant based version Swap in dried cranberries if you cannot find tart cherries
Serving Suggestions
Arrange the bites on a cheerful plate for after school snacks or serve as a sweet finish when entertaining health conscious friends When I pack these for a hike I sometimes dust a little cocoa over the top for extra chocolate oomph
Cultural and Historical Context
Energy bites take inspiration from traditional American snack bars reinvented for whole food lovers With wholesome ingredients and minimal processing you get that nostalgic chewy texture without the extra sugars
Seasonal Adaptations
Use dried blueberries or apricots in the summer for a change of pace Pulse in a tablespoon of pumpkin seeds for autumn crunch Swap almond butter for cashew or pecan butter for a cozy winter spin
Success Stories
My running club loves these on early morning meetups and kids seem to ask for them at every playdate A friend once doubled the recipe for a potluck and every last bite was gone before dinner finished
Freezer Meal Conversion
These freeze like a dream Simply chill them first then store in a freezer container Layer with parchment if stacking When ready to eat just grab and enjoy—no need to thaw
Save Make a double batch because these bites disappear fast and bring a smile to every snack break.
Cooking Questions
- → How do I keep energy bites from sticking to my hands while rolling?
Lightly dampen your hands with water or a touch of oil before rolling. This helps prevent sticking and creates smooth, compact bites.
- → Can I use other dried fruits besides cherries?
Yes, you can substitute raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots for cherries, adjusting sweetness as needed.
- → How should these be stored for freshness?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for up to two months.
- → Are these energy bites gluten-free and vegan?
Use gluten-free oats and swap honey for maple syrup plus vegan chocolate for a gluten-free, vegan treat.
- → What nut butter alternatives work in this recipe?
Sunflower seed butter makes a great nut-free alternative for those with allergies, maintaining texture and flavor.
- → Can the bites be made sweeter or less sweet?
Adjust the honey or maple syrup to taste. Less syrup yields a less sweet bite and slightly drier texture.