These Pumpkin Cranberry Energy Bites are packed with yummy flavors and wholesome ingredients. They are sweet, chewy, and the perfect snack for a busy day!
Making these is super easy—just mix everything together, roll them into balls, and enjoy! I love popping a couple in my bag for a tasty pick-me-up at work! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These oats give the bites their chewy texture. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free oats instead. Quick oats also work, but they will alter the texture slightly.
Canned Pumpkin Puree: This ingredient adds moisture and flavor. If you don’t have canned pumpkin, homemade pumpkin puree is a great substitute. Just make sure to properly cook and mash the pumpkin.
Dried Cranberries: They add sweetness and a pop of color. Feel free to replace them with raisins or chopped dates if you want different flavors. You can even use mixed dried fruits for added variety!
Nut Butter: Natural peanut butter is common, but almond butter or sunflower seed butter works well too. If you’re avoiding nuts, sunflower seed butter is a great alternative!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both sweeteners provide a touch of sweetness. If you need a vegan option, stick with maple syrup. For a lower-sugar alternative, consider using agave syrup sparingly.
How Do You Make the Energy Bites Stick Together?
The key to forming these bites lies in the right balance of wet and dry ingredients. The pumpkin puree and nut butter act as the binding agents, while oats provide structure. Here’s how to make it work:
- Keep the mixture cool by refrigerating it before forming balls. This helps solidify the nut butter and pumpkin.
- Use a cookie scoop or your hands to gather and pack the mixture tightly before rolling. Wetting your hands slightly can help prevent sticking.
- Don’t skip the second refrigeration step! It helps the bites firm up more, making them easier to handle.
With these tips, you’ll have delicious, nutritious energy bites ready to enjoy in no time!
How to Make Pumpkin Cranberry Energy Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped (if large)
- 1/3 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes of active preparation time and then a total of about 1 hour to chill and set. Fun and easy, these energy bites will be ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, start by combining the rolled oats, canned pumpkin puree, natural peanut butter (or almond butter), honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Use a spatula or spoon to mix until everything is well combined.
2. Add the Spices:
Next, sprinkle in the ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. These spices add warmth and flavor! Stir again until all the ingredients are mixed evenly.
3. Include the Cranberries:
Now, fold in the dried cranberries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This will give your bites a sweet and chewy texture.
4. Chill the Mixture:
Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to shape into balls.
5. Shape the Energy Bites:
After chilling, take the mixture out and scoop tablespoon-sized portions. Roll them between your hands to form bite-sized balls. If the mixture feels too sticky, dampen your hands slightly with water.
6. Final Chill:
Arrange the rolled energy bites on a plate or a baking sheet. Place them in the refrigerator again for another 30 minutes to set nicely.
7. Store and Enjoy:
Once set, transfer the energy bites to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Enjoy these yummy bites as a nutritious snack whenever you need a boost!
These Pumpkin Cranberry Energy Bites are fantastic for a quick snack or a pre-workout boost. Enjoy every bite! 🎃❤️
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth. Just remember to drain any excess moisture to avoid making the mixture too wet.
How Can I Make These Energy Bites Vegan?
To make these bites vegan, simply use maple syrup instead of honey. Additionally, ensure that you’re using vegan-friendly nut butter.
What Other Add-ins Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative! You can add chopped nuts, seeds, or even chocolate chips for a fun twist. Just keep the overall measurements similar to maintain the texture.
Can I Freeze These Energy Bites?
Absolutely! You can freeze the energy bites for up to 3 months. Just place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To thaw, leave them in the fridge overnight or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
