One of my favorite snacks to make for a family when I’m on a postpartum doula shift is the no-bake peanut butter energy bites. This is a great way to get a healthy, protein-packed, sweet treat snack while feeding your baby.

The good news about this treat is that even if you are not feeding your baby, everyone can enjoy them! I like to think of these as my “better for me” Reese’s cup! It has all the peanut butter and chocolate with some extra crunch and goodness.

These energy bites are sometimes referred to as lactation bites because the oatmeal, nuts, and seeds can help with milk production.

The beauty of this recipe is that you can mix and match the ingredients. Do you like a smoother bite or a crunchier, more textured bite? Oftentimes, I make two batches: one for my boys to enjoy with the basic recipe and one with all the extras added, since I love the texture and crunch.

BONUS PLAY TIP: If you have a toddler, preschooler, or older child, this is a great no-bake recipe to make together to practice some real-life skills!

• It makes for a good lesson in math with measuring out ingredients.
• This is great for scooping and pouring all of the ingredients.
• With multiple children, this is a good time to practice taking turns. You can also practice taking turns with your child, too.
• Stirring the peanut butter concoction is good heavy work for your child, and you can also have them mix with their hands for a sensory experience.
• You can end your time with the opportunity to clean up together because learning is messy.
• Added bonus: This is a great time for some meaningful connection with your child.

Step 1- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.   Stir to combine.   

Step 2- Decide on making Bites or Bars

For bites: Roll the ingredients  into balls and place them in your container.   

           Bonus Tip: You can place in the refrigerator  for 15-30 minutes if you plan to roll them into             balls.  This makes it a little easier to roll once they are chilled.  Roll bites after they have                    been refrigerated.

For bars: if you are ok with bars, press them into a pan.  Place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.    Cut them out for easy servings.  

Step 3- Place bites or bars into a sealed container to refrigerate and enjoy for up to a week.   

Make a double batch:  If you double the recipe and/or make more than you would eat, you can place them in a ziploc bag and put them in the freezer for 3 months.   Defrost in the refrigerator when you are ready to eat and enjoy.  

Other Quick Tips:

**Add additional peanut butter & honey as needed if they are too dry

**Add additional ingredients if they are too smooth and sticky. Or wet your hands to make rolling easier.  

Other variations & ingredients to consider: 

• Almond butter, sunbutter 
• Nutella
• Shredded coconut
• White chocolate chips
• Cranberries
• Pumpkin or sunflower seeds
• Chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans
• Wheat germ
• Cocoa powder
• Protein powder
• Hemp or Chia seeds
• Cinnamon or Pumpkin Spice powder

Don’t forget, the way we eat and fuel our body will help us sleep better too. Sometimes in the midst of taking care of our baby or child, we forget to take care of ourselves. This is a great snack to have on hand to get about 200 calories per bite to keep our energy levels up throughout the day. Keep hydrated too! Bon Appetit!

Tag me at @LovingLessons when you make your snack and let me know what you like in your energy bites or bars?