Cranberry Almond Energy Bites are a delightful and nutritious snack that’s perfect for on-the-go or as a quick pick-me-up during the day. These no-bake energy bites are known for their sweet and nutty flavor with a hint of tartness from dried cranberries. Let’s dive into the details you requested:
History:
Energy bites, in general, have gained popularity in recent years as a healthy and convenient snack option. While there may not be a specific historical origin for Cranberry Almond Energy Bites, they are part of the broader trend of creating nutrient-dense snacks that are easy to prepare and enjoy.
Components:
Here are the key components of Cranberry Almond Energy Bites:
- Rolled Oats: Provide fiber and energy.
- Almonds: Add healthy fats and a nutty flavor.
- Dried Cranberries: Bring a sweet and tart element.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Acts as a natural sweetener and binds the mixture.
- Nut Butter: Provides creaminess and holds everything together.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the overall taste.
Steps to Prepare:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Cranberry Almond Energy Bites:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almonds, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup nut butter (e.g., almond, peanut, or cashew)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, finely chopped almonds, and dried cranberries.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate, microwave-safe bowl, warm the nut butter and honey (or maple syrup) together until they are easily mixable. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
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Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well combined. You may need to use your hands to ensure even mixing.
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Shape into Bites: Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls using your hands. Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper.
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Chill: Refrigerate the energy bites for about 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.
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Store: Once they are firm, transfer the energy bites to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Preparation Time:
The total time to prepare Cranberry Almond Energy Bites is approximately 15-20 minutes, not including the 30 minutes of chilling time. This makes them a quick and easy snack option.
These energy bites are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them a great choice for a quick energy boost or a satisfying snack. Enjoy!
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Cranberry Almond Energy Bites (per serving, assuming a standard recipe makes about 12 energy bites):
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: Approximately 120-150 calories per energy bite.
- Total Fat: About 6-8 grams, primarily from almonds and nut butter.
- Saturated Fat: Minimal, usually around 1 gram or less.
- Trans Fat: None.
- Cholesterol: None.
- Sodium: A minimal amount, typically around 20-30 milligrams.
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 14-18 grams.
- Dietary Fiber: About 2-3 grams.
- Sugars: Around 7-10 grams, primarily from honey/maple syrup and dried cranberries.
- Protein: Approximately 3-4 grams, mainly from almonds and nut butter.
Health Information:
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Energy Boost: These energy bites are designed to provide a quick energy boost due to the combination of carbohydrates from oats and natural sugars from honey/maple syrup and dried cranberries.
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Healthy Fats: Almonds and nut butter contribute heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and some protein.
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Fiber: The oats and almonds in the recipe offer dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full.
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Protein: While not a significant source of protein, these energy bites do provide a modest amount, making them a balanced snack.
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Antioxidants: Dried cranberries contain antioxidants, which can have various health benefits, including reducing inflammation.
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Low in Saturated Fat: These energy bites are low in saturated fats, which is beneficial for heart health.
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No Trans Fat or Cholesterol: They are trans fat-free and cholesterol-free, promoting heart health.
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Portion Control: Since they are bite-sized, it’s easy to control your portion size, making them a convenient and mindful snack option.
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All-Natural Ingredients: The recipe typically uses all-natural ingredients without artificial additives or preservatives, making it a healthier alternative to many store-bought snacks.
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Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences, such as using almond butter for a dairy-free version or adding flaxseeds for extra omega-3 fatty acids.
Remember that the exact nutritional content may vary based on the specific ingredients and measurements used in your recipe, so it’s a good practice to check the labels of your chosen ingredients for precise information. These energy bites can be a nutritious and satisfying snack when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
