Vegan Chocolate No-Bake Energy Bites

Rich chocolate energy bites packed with wholesome ingredients like coconut, oats, and flaxseed. These no-bake treats combine creamy nut butter and maple syrup for natural sweetness, while cacao powder delivers deep chocolate flavor. Perfect for post-workout fuel, afternoon snacks, or lunchbox treats. The mixture comes together in minutes and requires no baking, making them ideal for busy schedules or hot weather when you want to avoid turning on the oven.
Ingredients
- ½ cup dried fruit, chopped
- ¾ cup unsweetened coconut shreds or flakes
- ½ cup gluten free rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons golden ground flaxseed
- 2 tablespoons raw cacao powder or unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup chocolate chips, mini and regular
- ¾ cup unsalted, natural creamy nut butter
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon vegan chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon dried fruit, chopped
Instructions
- 1
Line a medium baking sheet or large plate with parchment paper or wax paper
- 2
Mix together all dry ingredients in a large bowl: dried fruit, coconut, oats, flaxseed, cacao powder and chocolate chips
- 3
Add nut butter and maple syrup, then stir and fold with a sturdy spatula until well incorporated
- 4
Scoop balls of mixture onto prepared sheet using a small or medium cookie scoop
- 5
Roll and press into bites, optionally pressing additional dried fruit and chocolate chips into surface
Tips
Use a cookie scoop for uniform bite sizes that roll more easily into perfect spheres
Chill the mixture for 15-20 minutes if it's too sticky to handle, making rolling much easier
Good to Know
Store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 1 week
Can be made 3 days ahead and stored covered in refrigerator
Serve chilled or at room temperature
Common Mistakes
Don't skip lining the pan or bites will stick
Avoid overmixing once nut butter is added to prevent oily texture
Substitutions
Nut-Free Alternatives
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use regular oats instead of gluten-free?
Yes, regular rolled oats work perfectly if gluten isn't a concern. The texture and binding will be identical.
How long do these energy bites keep?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
Can I make these without chocolate chips?
Absolutely, you can omit chocolate chips or substitute with chopped nuts, seeds, or additional dried fruit for variety.