Homemade energy bites are one of my absolute favorite snacks to keep on hand. They’re the perfect quick and easy snack, they make a great addition to your breakfast, and they’re perfect for when you just need that little something to satisfy your sweet tooth.
One of my favorite things about making energy bites is that they are so easy to make, yet there are just endless different flavor combinations you can create. I always switch up the flavors whenever I make energy bites, but for the most part, here are the ingredients I always use:
- Nuts – Usually almonds, walnuts, cashews, or pecans.
- Seeds – Chia seeds, ground flaxseed, and pumpkin seeds are my go-to seeds.
- Grain/Flour – Oats are the most common grains I use, however I also like to use coconut flour and almond flour.
- Sweetener – Most often times I use dates, but mashed bananas, honey, and maple syrup all make occurrences on a very regular basis, as well.
- Fruit – Usually dates, coconut flakes, dried cherries, dried apricots, mashed banana, or fresh apples.
- Chocolate – Either in the form of cocoa powder or cacao nibs.
- Flavorings – Coffee granules (or instant coffee), nut butters, cinnamon, vanilla or almond extract.
There are so many unique-flavored energy bites you can make using the ingredients above, and like I said before, I always switch it up. When I was making my most recent batch of energy bites, I was feeling inspired by the 80-degree temperatures outside to make something summery, which is how I ended up with these lemon cashew energy bites!
Now truthfully, I’ve made a lot of energy bites, and I like all of them. However, I think it’s safe to say that these lemon cashew bites are in my top 2 favorite energy bites that I’ve ever made! They were filled with lemon flavor and hints of cashew, and they weren’t overly sticky or chewy like some turn out to be.
But I couldn’t just take my own personal opinion as the truth – I had to give them to others to see what they thought, as well. I ended up sharing them with about 7 people, and each person agreed that they were absolutely delicious and very filling. “So fresh and flavorful” was one of the comments I heard most often, and I can’t help but agree with that!
Not only are these energy bites filled with flavor, but they’re also filled with nutritious ingredients, making them a great option to reach for when you need a little snack. The cashews, flaxseed, and chia seeds provide a hefty dose of heart-healthy fats, protein, and fiber, and the oats contribute more fiber, as well as complex carbohydrates. They’re blended with dates for just a touch of sweetness and chewiness, and then the lemon adds a bright, zesty flavor that brings everything together. When everything is blended up, they make an irresistible treat that looks and tastes indulgent, but also one that holds plenty of health benefits for you!
The good thing about this recipe is that everyone can enjoy them – from adults to kids to health enthusiasts, and everyone in between. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make and require only a few simple ingredients, which is just another reason why they’re perfect for anyone. Whether you’re looking for a post-exercise snack, a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or something to satisfy your sweet tooth, then these lemon cashew energy balls are perfect for you!
- 1 cup packed dates (about 22 dates)
- 1 ¼ cups unsalted cashews
- 1 ½ cups + 2 TBSP old-fashioned oats
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 1 tsp. lemon zest
- ½ tsp. almond extract
- 1 – 2 TBSP chia seeds
- 1 ½ TBSP ground flaxseed
- Add the dates to a bowl and cover with very hot water. Let soak for 10-15 minutes. Drain well.
- Add the dates to a food processor. Pulse until very small pieces have formed.
- Add cashews and pulse until small pieces form. Add oats, chia seeds, flaxseed, and lemon zest.
- Add the lemon juice slowly, continuing to pulse as you add it. If mixture is too sticky, you may not need all of the liquid. You may need to add more oats or flaxseed if it is too sticky.
- Use a cookie scooper to scoop dough into balls.
- Yields about 22 bites.
