Banana Peanut Butter Bites

I blame my husband for my daughter’s sweet tooth (although, it was probably inevitable). He brings her to the bank and she comes home with a lollipop stick in each hand and a multi-colored tongue. I’ve never seen a child so excited to deposit a check. Lucky for me, I have something to beat that's better for you and satisfies that candy-sweet craving.

I started making energy bites when I became a breastfeeding mom and needed something quick and satisfying to shove in my mouth when I was hungry, but didn’t have the time (or energy) to cook. These are naturally sweetened with dates and ripe banana. They also incorporate peanut butter, oats and chocolate chips, which makes for a delicious and protein dense snack (especially during those late-night feedings). I’d make a batch of these at the beginning of the week and pull a couple out from the freezer, as needed. Now, I'm lucky if they last a couple days, since they have become a family favorite.

This recipe is inspired by Ashley's Maca Peanut Butter Energy Balls from Fit Mitten Kitchen. I hope you enjoy our adaptation!

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Banana Peanut Butter Bites

Makes about 25 Energy Bites

You'll need:

• 1 cup pitted dates (about 17)

• 1 cup slivered almonds (or other nuts of your choice)

• 1/2 cup unsalted peanut butter

• 3/4 cup oats (quick cooking or regular)

• 1/2 of a ripe banana

• 1-2 Tbsp water

• 1/4 cup semi sweet chocolate chips

• 2 dashes of ground cinnamon

1. In a food processor fitted with an S-blade, combine dates, nuts and peanut butter until they’ve processed into little crumb-like pieces.

2. Add the oats and banana and combine.

3. Add the chocolate chips and pulse, just until all ingredients form together. Add only one of two tablespoons of water, if needed - too much water will make your dough sticky.

4. Take one tablespoon of dough at a time, roll into a ball and place on a cookie sheet lined with wax paper and freeze.

5. Once frozen, place in an air tight container and store in the freezer. Pull out desired amount, as needed, and let thaw for a few minutes before enjoying. Alternately, you can store them in the refrigerator.

Happy snacking!

Nutrition

Serving: 1 Energy Bite | Calories: 87kcal | Fat: 4.8g | Saturated Fat: 0.6g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 1mg | Carbohydrate: 9.9g | Fiber: 1.9g | Sugar: 5.5g | Protein: 2.6g