Dark Chocolate Peppermint Energy Bites

Ingredients (about 12–14 bites)

• 1 cup rolled oats

• ½ cup almond butter or peanut butter

• ¼ cup honey or maple syrup

• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed or chia seeds

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Peppermint extract

  • Start with ¼ teaspoon, then adjust to taste

• Pinch of salt (about 1/16 teaspoon)

• 2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips or finely chopped dark chocolate

Optional topping

• 1 tablespoon finely crushed peppermint candy or candy cane (for a light holiday crunch)

Directions

1. Combine dry ingredients

   • In a medium bowl, stir together rolled oats, cocoa powder, ground flax or chia, and salt.

2. Add wet ingredients

   • Add almond butter, honey or maple syrup, vanilla, and ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract to the bowl.

   • Stir until the mixture is thick and evenly combined. It should hold together when pressed.

3. Taste and adjust “to taste”

   • Taste a small pinch of the mixture:

     • If you want more peppermint → add a few extra drops of peppermint extract at a time (it’s strong, so go slowly).

     • If you want it sweeter → add 1 teaspoon more honey/maple and stir again.

     • If it feels too dry → add 1–2 teaspoons more nut butter.

4. Add chocolate

   • Fold in dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate.

5. Form the bites

   • Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time and roll into balls.

   • If using crushed peppermint topping, roll some or all of the bites lightly in the crushed candy for a festive touch.

6. Place the bites on a plate or tray and chill in the fridge for at least 20–30 minutes to firm up.

7. Enjoy straight from the fridge for a chewy, brownie-like holiday treat.

Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months.

Enjoy!