Coconut energy bites are probably the brand new tasty snack you have been searching for.
The good news is that we have an easy to make, delicious recipe which is gluten-free, vegetarian, and kid-friendly.
Chocolate Coconut Energy Bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup puffed rice
- 1 cup coconut dried and shredded
- 4 Tbsp peanut butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 Tbsp chia seeds *
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cups chocolate dark
Method
- In a food processor, add puffed rice and coconut and pulse until they are coarsely ground.
- Add peanut butter, maple syrup, chia seeds, salt, vanilla extract, and dark chocolate chips. Pulse again until the mixture begins to come together and the chocolate chips have started to break apart. The mixture should be a bit sticky. If it is too dry, add another drizzle of maple syrup and mix well.
- Using a 1 Tbsp measure, scoop mixture and form into balls. Store in the fridge for 4 hours until firm.
- Enjoy!
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Looking for a heart-healthy snack to take with you on a busy day? Well, you found it!
These coconut chia seed bites AKA coconut energy bites are easy to make ahead of time, pop in the fridge, and toss into a bag on your way out the door. In addition, these bites take just 5 minutes to make and provide a triple source of antioxidants.
Sources of these antioxidant come from chia seeds, coconut, and dark chocolate, all of which help protect cells from damage.
Ingredient benefits of coconut energy bites
Chia seeds are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids which also offer fiber, protein, calcium, and zinc. The fiber found in these seeds helps with gastrointestinal health while the protein helps with your body’s structural function.
The zinc in these tiny seeds can help with oxygen delivery and the calcium (you guessed it) aids in bone strength. In addition, the omega-3’s help to lower cholesterol levels, regulate heart rhythms and blood pressure, prevent blood clots, and decrease body inflammation.
The fiber and omega-3’s from chia seeds work together to increase weight loss, help you feel full longer, and improve insulin resistance.
Similarly, coconut shares some properties with chia seeds as they are high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and water.
High in antioxidants, coconut is a healthy fat that can help repair damage to cells as well as provide balance to the digestive tract. Other health benefits of coconut include improved immune function with anti-viral, antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-parasitic properties.
Coconut has shown to reduce the risk of heart disease in patients by increasing HDL (the good cholesterol), restore thyroid function, and protect against kidney disease. Additionally, the fat from coconut is great for our hair and skin to bring the shine back into your hair, prevent the development of wrinkles, and slow aging skin.
Therefore, between the health benefits of chia seeds, coconut, and the amazing chocolatey flavor, this recipe is one that everyone in your family will love!
Additional Resources
Here are some other energy bite variations which are just as tasty!
And even more energy bites recipes:
Interested in cooking something else for your specific condition? Check out some of these recipes!
Want dietitian-approved products and recipes to make managing your condition easier? Below you’ll find products written and recommended by our very own dietitians!
Please note:
Nutrient info is an estimate and may contain errors.
Klara Knezevic has over a decade of experience in the nutrition field and currently serves as the CEO and co-owner of Rebecca Bitzer and Associates. Klara is passionate about sharing practical nutrition tips to help you feel confident in the choices that you make. Coauthor of Cooking with Food Sensitivities Survival Guide and Nourished: 10 Ingredients to Happy, Healthy Eating.
