Print

Easy Peanut Butter Banana Energy Bites for Lunches

peanut butter banana energy bites - featured image
Print Recipe

These no-bake energy bites are a healthy, portable snack made with oats, peanut butter, banana, and chocolate chips. Perfect for lunchboxes, they come together in 15 minutes and are kid-approved.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup rolled oats (use gluten-free certified oats if needed)
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (natural, no-stir, or regular all work)
  • 1 medium ripe banana, mashed (about 1/2 cup)
  • 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (dark, milk, or semi-sweet)
  • 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Mash the banana in a large mixing bowl with a fork until smooth with only a few small lumps.
  2. Add the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract to the mashed banana. Stir until fully combined into a thick, glossy paste.
  3. In a separate small bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground flaxseed, shredded coconut (if using), and salt. Stir to distribute evenly.
  4. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until everything is evenly moistened and forms a thick, sticky dough that holds together when pressed. If too dry, add a tablespoon of honey or a splash of milk; if too wet, add a tablespoon of oats.
  5. Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently. Do not overmix to avoid melting the chips.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to make the mixture easier to roll.
  7. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the mixture and roll each portion between your palms into smooth balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. If sticky, lightly wet your hands with water.
  8. Place the rolled balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate, leaving a little space between each.
  9. Refrigerate the rolled energy bites for at least 30 minutes before storing to firm up.

Notes

Chilling the mixture before rolling is crucial for easier handling. Wet hands slightly to prevent sticking. These energy bites taste better after a day in the fridge as flavors meld. For extra flavor, toast the oats at 350°F for 5-7 minutes and let cool before using. The ground flaxseed is structural—do not skip it.

Nutrition

Keywords: energy bites, peanut butter banana, no-bake snack, lunchbox snack, healthy snack, kid-friendly, gluten-free option, vegan option

Find it online: https://merrymorsel.com/easy-peanut-butter-banana-energy-bites-for-lunches/