Looking for an easy kid-friendly recipe perfect for Valentine’s Day? We’ve got you covered! These no bake gluten free energy bites are satisfying and so easy to make. I love this recipe because you and your kids can get creative with the add-ins! I used gluten free oats here but you can swap for regular. No chia seeds? No problem! Swap in some hemp seeds or ground flax seeds! Not feeling the peanut butter? Substitute sunflower seed butter, almond butter, or your favourite alternative. Looking for more protein? Add a scoop of protein powder. Not feeling smarties? See the list of substitution ideas below! The possibilities are endless for you and your littles! Let’s dive in to the recipe. 

Ingredients

1 1/4 cup gluten-free rolled oats 

1/2 cup unsweetened peanut butter

1/4 cup maple syrup or honey

2 tbsp ground chia seeds

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

1/4 tsp cinnamon

Pinch salt

1/3 cup M&M’s (Smarties can also be used but are NOT gluten free)

Optional: 1 scoop protein powder 

Water (to hydrate if added protein powder, adjust as needed)

*Smarties can be substituted or shared with chocolate chips, raisins, coconut flakes, etcetera! Adjust levels to make 1/3-1/2 cups total mix-ins as desired.

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, honey/maple syrup, chia seeds, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. If adding protein powder, add water to hydrate mixture until slightly sticky.
2. Stir in smarties and fold until smooth.
3. Using your hands, divide the cookies into balls and place on lined baking sheet.
4. Serve immediately or let firm in fridge for 20 minutes before serving. Store in an airtight container in fridge. Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this super simple and quick recipe! This has always been my go-to when I want cookies but don’t want to use the oven. Let me know what you think in the comments below. Happy Valentine’s Day everyone!