No-Bake Chocolate Coconut Energy Bites

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup natural almond butter
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, shredded coconut, chia seeds, mini dark chocolate chips, and sea salt. Stir well to distribute evenly.
2. Add the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly using a sturdy spoon or your hands until a sticky, uniform dough forms.
3. If the mixture feels too dry, add a small drizzle of almond butter or honey to help it bind better. If too sticky, add a little more oats.
4. Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1-inch bite-sized balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
5. Refrigerate the energy bites for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Once set, transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Chef tips

• For a nut-free version, substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
• If mini chocolate chips are not available, chop a dark chocolate bar into small pieces instead.
• To make these bites vegan, use maple syrup instead of honey.
• Adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder intensifies the chocolate flavor without altering the texture much.