How're we doing parents? We're a few weeks into summer vacation, and snack time likely feels like a full-time job, right?! Never fear, these Monster Energy Bites are a quick, wholesome snack that both kids and adults will enjoy. Here are some other kid-friendly favorites on the blog: Quinoa Pizza Bites, Chocolate Banana Penguins, Lucky Charms Cereal Bars.
These energy bites check all the boxes:
- No-bake.
- Kid-approved.
- Made with pantry staples.
- Ready in under 15 minutes!
As a bonus, they freeze beautifully. So go ahead and double the batch. Future-you will be glad you did.
Watch The How-To Video
How to Make These Monster Energy Bites, Step-By-Step
- Mix the base: In a large bowl, stir together oats, ground flax seeds, peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should be thick and sticky.
- Add the fun stuff: Gently fold in mini M&Ms and mini chocolate chips.
- Shape into balls: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture at a time and roll into balls. If the mixture is too sticky to handle, chill in the fridge for 15–20 minutes first.
- Chill: Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking tray or plate. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up.
When to Serve Energy Bites
- For a grab-and go breakfast on busy mornings
- For an afternoon pick me up
- As a post-workout snack. Carbs, protein, and healthy fats all in one
- Pack them in lunches for your kids (or yourself)
- As a late night sweet treat
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats?
You can, but the texture will be a little chewier and less cohesive. For the best "bite," quick oats are ideal.
Are these energy bites gluten-free?
Yes, just make sure your oats are certified gluten-free.
Can I use a different nut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter work great. If you're using a natural, drippy nut butter, you may need to chill the mixture longer before rolling.
What’s the best way to store them?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze and pull out a few at a time as needed.
Energy Bites vs Protein Balls: What’s the Difference?
These terms get tossed around a lot, and while they’re similar, there’s a subtle distinction.
- Energy Bites typically focus on natural energy from whole ingredients like oats, nut butter, and honey.
- Protein Balls may include added protein powder or other high-protein ingredients to support muscle recovery.
This Monster Energy Bites recipe falls right in the middle — enough protein and healthy fats to keep you full, but fun and sweet enough to feel like a treat.
Why Are They Called “Monster” Energy Bites?
The name comes from Monster Cookies, a retro treat that’s loaded with peanut butter, oats, chocolate chips, and colorful M&Ms. These energy bites take that same fun flavor profile and transform it into a no-bake snack that’s perfect for modern life.
You can store Monster Energy Bites in two easy ways, depending on how quickly you plan to eat them:
In the Fridge:
- Place the energy bites in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- They’ll stay fresh, firm, and ready to grab whenever snack time strikes!
In the Freezer:
- For longer storage, place the bites in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1 hour).
- Then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying — or eat them frozen for a chewier snack!
Tip: If stacking them in a container, separate layers with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking.
Tips for Perfect Energy Bites Every Time
Adjust Texture as Needed
If your mixture feels dry or crumbly, add a bit more peanut butter or honey. If it’s too sticky, stir in a little extra oats or flax.
Use a Cookie Scoop
This keeps the bites uniform in size and makes rolling easier — plus they look cute when they’re all the same!
Mix In Extras
Want to boost the nutrition even more? Add:
- Chia seeds for extra fiber
- Unsweetened shredded coconut for texture
- Hemp seeds for plant-based protein
- Almond butter for a different nutty flavor
Make Ahead & Freeze
Store them in the fridge for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. They thaw quickly — just grab and go!
Let Me Know How It Goes!
If you try these Monster Energy Bites or any other Suburban Simplicity recipe, don't forget to rate the recipe and let me know how it went in the comments below, I love hearing from you! Better yet, use the hashtag #suburbansimplicity on Instagram.
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Printable Recipe
Monster Energy Bites
Ingredients
- ½ cups quick oats
- ½ cup cream peanut butter
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup ground flax seeds
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ cup mini M&Ms
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Mix the base: In a large bowl, stir together oats, ground flax seeds, peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should be thick and sticky.
- Add the fun stuff: Gently fold in mini M&Ms and mini chocolate chips.
- Shape into balls: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture at a time and roll into balls. If the mixture is too sticky to handle, chill in the fridge for 15–20 minutes first.
- Chill: Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking tray or plate. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up.
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