Start by grinding a half cup of oats and all of the flax seeds in a blender or food processor until they form a fine powder. This helps create a smooth texture in your bites.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground oats and flax seeds with the remaining cup of rolled oats, cocoa powder, salt, and chia seeds. Make sure to mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of all the dry ingredients.
In a separate small bowl, stir together the honey, peanut butter, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. This mixture is crucial as it binds all the dry ingredients together.
Pour the wet mixture into the large bowl of dry ingredients. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined. You might find it easier to use your hands to mix, as the mixture will be quite thick.
Once everything is mixed, take a small amount—about a tablespoon—and roll it into a ball, approximately one inch in diameter. This should yield about 20 bites. If your hands feel sticky, try wetting them with a bit of water or coating them lightly with coconut or canola oil to ease the process.
Place the rolled bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart. This will help them cool without sticking together.
Once all the bites are rolled, refrigerate them for at least one hour to set. This step is essential for firming them up and ensuring they hold their shape.
After they’ve chilled, you can enjoy them right away or store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for four to five days, or you can freeze them for up to two weeks for longer storage.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy Bites anytime you need a quick snack!