No matter how much they eat, it seems like kids are constantly asking for snacks. About once every hour I hear: "Mom, I'm hungry!"
To prevent this desire to eat around the clock, I have been looking for snack options that take longer to digest, easy to prepare, and taste great! Instead of crackers or chips, they need protein.
For the past few weeks, I've been experimenting with these protein-rich energy bites. I love them and the kids follow my lead. Finally, I can go between meals without hearing, "MOM!!!!" Plus, if I make a large batch, these little protein bites can last all week long!
Here is my favorite recipe for no-bake energy bites, but feel free to add different ingredients your kids love (coconut, white chocolate chips, raisins... get creative). Once you get your favorites together, all you have to do is mix, roll, and refrigerate! Easy-peasy!
No-Bake Energy Bites
Makes 12
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of old-fashioned, uncooked rolled oats
- 1/2 cup of smooth peanut butter
- 1/3 cup of honey
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
Directions:
- Mix until ingredients are well combined.
- Roll into 12 balls.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes.
- Store in an airtight container.
Enjoy!
Inspired by a post from Amy Romback, the publisher of Macaroni Kid East Lansing-Okemos-Haslett, Mich.
