Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Energy Bites

I was a little wary about posting this recipe because their are very few of us that can stop at just one Bite. However, I'm a big believer in controlled treats ONLY when following a strict meal time schedule to ensure your appetite and hunger is at bay. Know yourself well and proceed with caution. I posted the calorie count so you can be well aware of the magnitude of each bite.

1 C peanut butter

2 Tbsp oil

3 Tbsp maple syrup (or honey)

1 tsp vanilla extract

pinch of salt

2 1/4 C old fashioned oats

1/4 C flour

1/3 C mini chocolate chips

1 1/2 Tbsp chia seeds, divided

Instructions:

-Mix 1 Tbsp chia seeds with 3 Tbsp of water and set aside to form a gel.

-In a small saucepan over low heat combine oil, peanut butter, honey, vanilla and salt. Stir until just melted then remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

-Optional step: Add oats to a food processor and pulse 5-10 times to break down the oats. Some oats will remain whole.

-In a medium bowl, combine oats, flour and remaining 1/2 Tbsp chia seeds.

-Add cooled peanut better mixture and chia gel to oat mixture and stir with wooden spoon, in a mixture or with hands (hands work best). Note: the dough needs to be mixed very well before to come together. If dough doesn't come together add 1 Tbsp of water at a time until it starts sticking together. You shouldn't need more than 1-2 Tbsp of water.

-Mix in chocolate chips. Make sure dough is not warm otherwise chocolate chips will melt.

-Oil hands with oil and roll dough firmly into small round bites.

-Store in covered container in the refrigerator or freezer.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 28 Amount per serving Calories 116

Total Fat 7.1g Saturated Fat 1.7g

Cholesterol 0mg Sodium 45mg

Total Carbohydrate 10.4g Dietary Fiber 1.8g Total Sugars 3.3g

Protein 3.7g

Vitamin D 0mcg Calcium 19mg Iron 1mg Potassium 103mg