Monster Cookie Energy Balls are the ultimate no-bake snack that combines all the best flavors of a classic monster cookie into a bite-sized, healthy treat. Perfect for on-the-go energy, these delightful balls are packed with oats, peanut butter, chocolate chips, and M&M’s, offering a chewy texture and a deliciously sweet taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Requires no baking and is ready in just a few minutes.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome oats and natural peanut butter.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun and colorful snack that kids love.
- Portable: Great for lunchboxes, road trips, or a post-workout boost.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit dietary needs or preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Rolled oats
- Creamy peanut butter
- Honey or maple syrup
- Mini chocolate chips
- Mini M&M’s
- Vanilla extract
- Optional: Chia seeds, flaxseeds, or protein powder for added nutrition
Directions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, mini chocolate chips, and M&M’s. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for 20-30 minutes. This makes it easier to roll the mixture into balls.
- Roll into Balls: Using your hands, roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter.
- Store: Place the energy balls in an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to eat.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes approximately 20-24 energy balls, depending on the size.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 20-30 minutes
- Total Time: 30-40 minutes
Variations
- Nut-Free: Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and M&M’s.
- Low-Sugar: Swap out the M&M’s for dried fruit like raisins or cranberries.
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats.
- Protein-Packed: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: These freeze well! Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Let them thaw for a few minutes before enjoying.
- Reheating: Not necessary as these are a no-bake treat. Simply enjoy them cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly softer.
2. What’s the best way to prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands while rolling?
Lightly grease your hands with cooking spray or rub a small amount of oil on them.
3. Can I make these vegan?
Yes, use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure the chocolate chips and M&M’s are vegan-friendly.
4. Are these energy balls suitable for weight loss?
While they are nutrient-dense, portion control is key as they are high in calories due to the peanut butter and chocolate.
5. Can I substitute almond butter for peanut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter works well as a substitute.
6. How long can I leave these at room temperature?
They’re best kept refrigerated but can be left at room temperature for a few hours without issue.
7. Can I add protein powder to the recipe?
Yes, adding a scoop of protein powder is a great way to boost the protein content.
8. Are these safe for kids with nut allergies?
If you use a nut-free butter like sunflower seed butter, they can be made safe for kids with nut allergies.
9. What type of oats work best?
Old-fashioned rolled oats are ideal for the best texture.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! This recipe is easy to scale up for larger batches.
Conclusion
Monster Cookie Energy Balls are a perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Whether you need a quick breakfast, a midday snack, or a treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, these no-bake bites are sure to be a hit. Customize them to your taste, and enjoy the ease of making a snack that everyone will love!
Print
Monster Cookie Energy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None (no-bake)
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 20–24 energy bites 1x
- Category: Snacks
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Monster Cookie Energy Bites are a delightful, no-bake snack that combines the flavors of classic monster cookies into a convenient, bite-sized treat. Packed with oats, peanut butter, honey, and a mix of chocolate chips and M&M’s, these energy bites are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a post-workout snack.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (preferably natural, just peanuts and salt)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (optional, for added nutrition)
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup mini M&M’s
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add the rolled oats and ground flaxseed (if using) to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Fold in the mini chocolate chips and mini M&M’s, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Using a cookie scoop or your hands, portion out the mixture and roll it into 1-inch balls. Place the formed balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Refrigerate the energy bites for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.
- Once set, transfer the energy bites to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze them for up to two months.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup and ensure the chocolate chips and M&M’s are dairy-free.
- If the mixture is too dry and crumbly, add a bit more peanut butter or honey to achieve the desired consistency.
- Feel free to customize your energy bites by adding ingredients like shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or dried fruits.
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