Easy Peanut Cashew Energy Bites

Healthy and On-the-Go

Hello! The sun has finally made its return to Oregon! Days like these feel like a magical gift this early in the year. The reprieve from the rain and clouds won't last long though. Up until about mid-June to early July you can count on precipitation. So when a sunny, dry day comes along, you have to take advantage of it. I live for picnics on damp grass and hikes along muddy trails on days like these. And having a healthy and nutritious snack on-the-go for outdoor adventures makes the day even better. These easy peanut and cashew energy bites are perfect for packing into a backpack for a picnic, hike, or a drive out to a scenic lookout. They're full of protein and healthy fats to keep you energized for whatever the day throws your way. Plus each ball is the perfect size for a little bite packed with salty-sweet flavor and crunchy goodness. When the sun comes out, I like to whip up a batch in under half an hour and set out for the day's adventures - snacks fully-loaded.

No nuts? No problem.

If you have a nut allergy or an aversion to nuts, you can totally still make these easy peanut and cashew energy bites! Just substitute the nut butter for your favorite seed butter. And replace the chopped peanuts and cashews with anything you desire - shredded coconut, seeds, and chocolate chips are all excellent options.

For more ideas on flavor combinations, check out my build-your-own adventure trail mix guide. Maybe you're heading to a bonfire on the beach and want to make s'mores-flavored energy bites? Just mix the oats and honey with chopped marshmallows, graham cracker crumbs and melted chocolate. It might get messy, but it'll be so tasty. Truly, the possibilities are endless!

Choosing the best ingredients

If you are using peanut butter in your easy peanut and cashew energy bites, I suggest finding a peanut butter with as few ingredients as possible. I like a couple brands that have zero added sugar (except for honey) and zero palm oil (which contributes to deforestation). The Portland-based brand Wild Friends Foods has some incredible flavors of nut and seed butters made from wholesome ingredients. I used their peanut cashew super butter in these energy bites, since it adds a little extra sweetness from the organic clover honey. And the chia seeds and flax seeds make it extra thick and delicious. You could also make your own nut butter at home, so you know exactly what ingredients are going into it.

Enjoy!!