These Chocolate Cherry Energy Bites are a delicious way to fuel your day with wholesome ingredients.
Packed with plant-based protein from cashew butter, fiber from oats and chia seeds, and healthy fats from flax and coconut, they deliver long-lasting energy without refined sugar.
Naturally sweetened, nutrient-dense, and completely no-bake, they make an ideal grab-and-go snack, post-workout bite, or meal-prep-friendly treat that’s both satisfying and guilt-free.
30-Minute Chocolate Cherry Energy Bites
Equipment
- 1 Food processor
- 1 Cookie Dough Scoop (1 tbsp size recommended)
- 1 Mixing Spatula
- 1 Parchment-Lined Baking Sheet
- (1) Storage Container with Lid
Ingredients
- 1 cup cashew butter
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey, if not vegan
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
- ¼ cup shredded coconut
- ½ cup dried cherries
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¾ cup mini dark chocolate chips
- Flaky sea salt optional, for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Base Mixture: Start by adding the cashew butter, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract into the bowl of a food processor. These ingredients form the sticky, creamy base that will hold everything together. Blend for a few seconds until smooth and well combined. The mixture should look glossy and thick, almost like cookie dough batter.
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Next, add the old-fashioned oats, chia seeds, ground flaxseed, shredded coconut, and sea salt into the food processor with the cashew mixture. Pulse the ingredients several times until they begin to break down and blend. The oats should still have a slight texture, but everything should stick together when pressed between your fingers.This step adds essential fiber, healthy fats, and nutrients, ensuring the bites are both nourishing and filling.
- Fold in Cherries and Chocolate: Now it’s time to add the fun mix-ins! Toss the dried cherries and mini dark chocolate chips into the food processor. Pulse just a few times—enough to evenly distribute them throughout the mixture without chopping them too finely. The cherries should remain chewy, and the chocolate chips should still hold their shape, creating little bursts of sweetness in every bite.
- Chill the Mixture: Transfer the mixture to a bowl, cover it, and place it in the refrigerator for about 15–20 minutes. Chilling is an important step because it firms up the dough, making it easier to roll into neat balls. Skipping this step may leave you with sticky hands and messy bites, so be patient and let the mixture set properly.
- Shape the Energy Bites: Once the mixture has firmed up, use a cookie dough scoop (about 1 tablespoon per bite) to portion out even amounts. Roll each portion between your palms until smooth and round. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them slightly apart so they don’t stick together. Rolling them by hand ensures they have a compact shape and don’t crumble later.
- Add the Finishing Touch: If you like a sweet-salty contrast, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the top of each energy bite. This enhances the flavor of the chocolate and cherries while adding a little gourmet flair. This step is optional, but it makes the bites extra delicious and Instagram-worthy.
- Set and Store: Place the rolled energy bites back into the refrigerator for at least 15 more minutes to firm up completely. Once they’re solid, transfer them to an airtight container. These bites will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week, or you can freeze them for up to three months. Simply thaw a few minutes before eating, and they’ll be as good as fresh.
- Enjoy Anytime: Your Chocolate Cherry Energy Bites are now ready! Enjoy them as a quick breakfast on busy mornings, a pre- or post-workout snack, or a guilt-free dessert when you’re craving something sweet. They’re portable, nutrient-packed, and satisfying—making them a perfect everyday energy booster.
Notes
- Use creamy cashew butter for the best texture; if your nut butter is too thick, warm it slightly before mixing.
- Maple syrup adds a rich depth of flavor, but honey works just as well (if not making vegan).
- For stronger chocolate flavor, use 70% or higher dark chocolate chips.
- Dried cherries add natural sweetness and chewiness—swap with cranberries or raisins if needed.
- Chilling the mixture before rolling is essential to avoid sticky hands.
- A cookie scoop ensures all bites are uniform in size.
- Flaky sea salt on top enhances both sweetness and richness—highly recommended!
- Store in the fridge for freshness or freeze for long-term snacking.
- These bites are naturally gluten-free (if using GF oats).
- Perfect for meal prep—make a double batch and keep on hand for busy weeks.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Results
The key to success with these energy bites lies in balance—balancing flavors, textures, and even the mixing process.
Always start with fresh, high-quality nut butter that’s smooth and slightly runny.
This ensures the mixture binds properly without extra liquid. When pulsing in the food processor, avoid over-blending; keeping some texture from the oats, coconut, and cherries makes the bites more enjoyable.
For even more flavor, lightly toast the shredded coconut beforehand—it adds a subtle nuttiness that elevates the entire recipe.
Finally, don’t rush the chilling step; allowing the mixture to rest ensures smooth rolling and bites that hold their shape beautifully.
Serving Suggestions for Every Occasion
These Chocolate Cherry Energy Bites are versatile and fit into almost any moment of your day.
For a quick breakfast, pair them with a cup of coffee or a smoothie for sustained energy.
As a pre- or post-workout snack, they deliver a combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats that help fuel recovery.
They also double as a healthier dessert option—serve them on a platter alongside fresh fruit for a party-friendly treat.
Kids love them in lunchboxes, and adults appreciate them as an afternoon pick-me-up when energy dips.
Keep a small bag in your purse or backpack for on-the-go snacking that feels indulgent but nourishes your body.
Storage Tips for Lasting Freshness
Proper storage ensures that your energy bites remain fresh, chewy, and delicious for days (or even weeks).
Once rolled, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator, where they will last up to one week without losing flavor or texture.
If you’re making a large batch for meal prep, consider freezing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
This prevents them from sticking together. Frozen bites will keep for up to three months and can be enjoyed straight from the freezer or after a brief thaw at room temperature for 5–10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use peanut butter instead of cashew butter?
Yes, absolutely! Peanut butter works perfectly and adds a stronger nutty flavor. Almond butter is another great option. Just make sure whichever nut butter you choose is creamy and not overly dry.
2. Are these energy bites gluten-free?
Yes, they are naturally gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free oats. Double-check labels on oats and chocolate chips to ensure they’re safe for anyone with gluten sensitivity.
3. How can I make these bites lower in sugar?
To reduce sugar, use unsweetened dried cherries, cut the maple syrup slightly, or opt for sugar-free chocolate chips. The bites will still hold together while remaining delicious and satisfying.
4. Can I add protein powder to this recipe?
Yes! You can add 2–3 tablespoons of your favorite protein powder to the mixture. If the dough feels too dry afterward, simply add a splash more nut butter or maple syrup to rebalance.
5. How do I keep the mixture from sticking to my hands?
If the dough is sticky while rolling, lightly dampen your palms with water or rub a tiny bit of coconut oil on your hands. This helps shape smooth, even balls without any mess.
