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Easy Peanut Butter Banana Energy Bites for School

peanut butter banana energy bites - featured image

These no-bake energy bites combine ripe banana, peanut butter, oats, and chocolate chips for a quick, healthy snack perfect for school lunches. Ready in 15 minutes, they’re a crowd-pleaser that holds up beautifully in lunchboxes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup rolled oats (use certified gluten-free if needed)
  • Β½ cup creamy peanut butter (natural preferred)
  • 1 medium ripe banana, mashed well
  • 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
  • ΒΌ cup mini chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed (optional)
  • Β½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt (if peanut butter is unsalted)

Instructions

  1. Mash the banana in a large mixing bowl until mostly smooth (about β…“ cup).
  2. Add peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract to the mashed banana. Stir until well combined and slightly glossy.
  3. Add rolled oats, ground flaxseed (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir vigorously until no dry oats remain (about 1 minute).
  4. Fold in mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to make the mixture easier to handle.
  6. Using a cookie scoop or your hands, portion the mixture into 1-tablespoon-sized balls. Roll firmly between palms; wet hands slightly if sticky. Makes about 14-16 bites.
  7. Place rolled bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  8. Transfer chilled bites to an airtight container and keep refrigerated until ready to pack.

Notes

The mixture will feel too wet at first; the oats absorb moisture as it sits. If too sticky after chilling, add another tablespoon of oats. If too dry, add a teaspoon of honey or splash of milk. Wet hands slightly when rolling to prevent sticking. Batch prep and freeze for busy mornings.

Nutrition

Keywords: energy bites, peanut butter banana, no-bake, school lunch, healthy snack, gluten-free option, vegan option