These energy bites are incredibly easy to make and require no baking at all. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a nutritious snack in minutes. The combination of tart dried cranberries and rich pistachios creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. They’re portable, freezer-friendly, and great for meal prep. Plus, they can easily be customized to fit different dietary preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup rolled oats 1/2 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped 1/3 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped 2 tablespoons chia seeds or ground flaxseed 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Pinch of salt
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped cranberries, chopped pistachios, and chia seeds. Stir until evenly distributed.
Add the nut butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and salt to the bowl.
Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture holds together when pressed.
If the mixture feels too dry, add a small spoonful of nut butter or honey. If too sticky, add a few extra oats.
Scoop about one tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form bite-sized balls.
Place the energy bites on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Once set, transfer to an airtight container for storage.
For a chocolate twist, add mini dark chocolate chips to the mixture. Swap peanut butter for cashew butter or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile. Add shredded coconut for extra texture and natural sweetness. Use orange zest to brighten the cranberry flavor. Replace pistachios with almonds, walnuts, or pecans if preferred.
Storage/Reheating
Store the energy bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, keep them in the freezer for up to three months. Let frozen bites sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before enjoying. These bites do not require reheating.
FAQs
Can I make these energy bites vegan?
Yes, simply use maple syrup instead of honey to make them fully vegan.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, quick oats work well and create a slightly softer texture.
How do I keep the bites from falling apart?
Make sure the mixture is well combined and sticky enough to hold together. Add a little more nut butter or sweetener if needed.
Can I make them nut-free?
Yes, use sunflower seed butter and replace pistachios with seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
Are these energy bites gluten-free?
They can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats.
Can I add protein powder?
Yes, you can add a scoop of protein powder. You may need to add a bit more nut butter or honey to balance the texture.
Do I need a food processor?
No, these can be mixed easily by hand in a bowl.
Can I substitute fresh cranberries?
Fresh cranberries are not recommended because they contain too much moisture and are very tart. Dried cranberries work best.
How long do they need to chill?
About 30 minutes is usually enough for them to firm up properly.
Can kids help make this recipe?
Absolutely. Since there’s no baking involved, it’s a safe and fun recipe for kids to help mix and roll.
Conclusion
Cranberry Pistachio Energy Bites are a quick, nutritious, and delicious snack that fits easily into any busy lifestyle. With simple ingredients and endless customization options, they’re perfect for meal prep and everyday snacking. Keep a batch in your fridge or freezer, and you’ll always have a satisfying treat ready to go.
Cranberry Pistachio Energy Bites are a wholesome, no-bake snack packed with natural sweetness, nutty crunch, and satisfying texture, perfect for a quick and nutritious snack.
Ingredients
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/3 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons chia seeds or ground flaxseed
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped cranberries, chopped pistachios, and chia seeds. Stir until evenly distributed.
Add the nut butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and salt to the bowl.
Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture holds together when pressed.
If the mixture feels too dry, add a small spoonful of nut butter or honey. If too sticky, add a few extra oats.
Scoop about one tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form bite-sized balls.
Place the energy bites on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Once set, transfer to an airtight container for storage.
Notes
For a chocolate twist, add mini dark chocolate chips to the mixture.Swap peanut butter for cashew butter or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile.Add shredded coconut for extra texture and natural sweetness.Use orange zest to brighten the cranberry flavor.Replace pistachios with almonds, walnuts, or pecans if preferred.Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.
