15-Minute No-Bake Cherry Pecan Chia Energy Bites

Prep: 20 min16 servingsmediumAmerican
No-Bake Cherry Pecan Chia Energy Bites with Chocolate Chips

These wholesome energy bites combine sweet dried cherries, crunchy pecans, and nutrient-rich chia seeds in a satisfying no-bake treat. Bound together with natural peanut butter and honey, they're perfect for breakfast on-the-go, post-workout fuel, or healthy snacking. The addition of coconut flakes and mini chocolate chips creates delightful texture and flavor contrasts in every bite.

Ingredients

16 servings
  • ¾ cup rolled oats
  • ¾ cup unsweetened coconut flakes
  • ½ cup dried cherries
  • ½ cup pecans, chopped
  • cup mini chocolate chips
    cacao nibs1:1refined sugar-free

    slightly bitter flavor

    Full guide →
  • cup natural unsalted peanut butter
    almond butter1:1nut-free alternativepeanuts-freeadds dairy

    natural unsalted variety works best

    Full guide →
  • ¼ cup honey
    maple syrup1:1vegan

    removes honey adds maple syrup

    Full guide →
  • cup chia seeds

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine all ingredients in a large bowl until thoroughly incorporated

  2. 2

    Chill mixture in refrigerator for 30 minutes

  3. 3

    Shape approximately two tablespoons of mixture into balls using clean hands

  4. 4

    Place shaped balls on parchment-lined baking sheet

  5. 5

    Repeat until all mixture is used

  6. 6

    Chill energy bites in refrigerator for 30 minutes

  7. 7

    Transfer to airtight container

Tips

Tip 1

Wet your hands slightly when rolling the mixture to prevent sticking and achieve smoother balls.

Tip 2

For firmer bites, chill the mixture longer before shaping or add more dry ingredients if too sticky.

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 1 week

Make Ahead

Can be made 3 days ahead; flavors improve with time

Serve With

Serve chilled directly from refrigerator

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't skip chilling time or mixture will be too soft to shape properly

Watch

Use natural peanut butter to avoid excess oils that make mixture too wet

Substitutions

Vegan Options

honey
maple syrup1:1vegan

removes honey adds maple syrup

Full guide →

Nut-Free Alternatives

peanut butter
almond butter1:1nut-free alternativepeanuts-freeadds dairy

natural unsalted variety works best

Full guide →

General Alternatives

mini chocolate chips
cacao nibs1:1refined sugar-free

slightly bitter flavor

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I freeze these energy bites?

Yes, freeze for up to 3 months in airtight container. Thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before eating.

What if my mixture is too dry to hold together?

Add more peanut butter or honey one tablespoon at a time until mixture binds properly when squeezed.

Can I substitute the chia seeds?

Yes, replace with ground flaxseed, hemp hearts, or additional chopped nuts in equal amounts for similar texture.