Recipe: Monster Energy Bites

Inspired by the daughter of one of our very own Avance Care Behavioral Therapists, these energy balls are a kid (and adult!) favorite. These no bake, throw-everything-in-one-bowl oat bites are a fun way to get your children involved in preparing a well-balanced snack. Plus, they are a great source of fiber and healthy fats to fuel your child’s (and your own) brain and body. Just be sure to get those wipes ready, this one can be sticky!

Prep Time

20 minutes

Makes

20 servings

Ingredients

1 cup old-fashioned oats

1/2 cup shredded coconut, toasted, sweetened or unsweetened

1/2 cup of creamy natural peanut butter, unsalted

1/2 cup ground flaxseed

1/2 cup mini M&M’s

1/2 cup maple syrup or honey

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)

Preparation

Stir all ingredients in a large mixing bowl until combined.
Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours OR in the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes. This will help the mixture stick together more when forming the balls.
Roll mixture into golf ball (or 1-inch) sized bites.
Enjoy!
Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Tips for Involving Kids

Young Kids

Mix the ingredients together using their hands (cleaned, of course!). This allows them to further explore the different textures of foods. It’s messy, but it is a safe, fun way to approach food with curiosity. This helps establish a better relationship with food from an early age!

Older Children/Teens

Practice using cooking utensils and measuring cups. Since there is no chopping or cutting, it is a great introduction to food preparation in a safe, fun way.