Easy Almond Butter Protein Bites for Kids: No bake
These Almond Butter Protein Bites for kids are made with simple ingredients and provide the perfect snack and healthy treat for the whole family. I am always on the hunt for healthy options for snack ideas and these almond butter protein balls are an easy way to provide a quick snack that is also a sweet treat while serving my kids wholesome real food and essential nutrients. My personal preference is to add a delicious twist to this energy ball recipe with toasted coconut and my favorite protein powder or hot cocoa powder with nutritious ingredients (Here is my favorite). The perfect way for mama to get protein, too! Also, oats are known to increase milk supply, so, nursing mamas this is a great snack for you too.
Jump to Almond Butter Protein Bites for kids Recipe CardIngredient Breakdown for Almond Butter Protein Bites for Kids
- Rolled oats (Old fashioned oats): the base ingredient in this recipe. Oats are loaded with vital vitamins and minerals such as manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, folate, and B vitamins.
- Almond butter: Nut butter is a good source of protein. Try to choose an almond butter with roasted almonds as the only ingredient. Almond butter contains fiber, folate, vitamin E, vitamin B6, and zinc. Vitamin E is known to help with learning and memory.
- Pure maple syrup: Pure maple syrup is very high in antioxidants and contains riboflavin, zinc, magnesium, calcium, and potassium. Maple syrup is the glue that holds the protein ball together.
- Salt: Salt brightens and enhances the flavors and is a source of essential trace minerals (unrefined salt).
- Vanilla extract: Vanilla because we love flavor.
- Chocolate Chips: Because snacks are better with chocolate (my little girl calls them polka-dots š ). We change up our chocolate chips by using semi-sweet, milk chocolate, or my favorite dark chocolate chips. If you need vegan-friendly and dairy free chocolate chips here are 5 brands to try.
A tip from a mama. I understand organic foods are expensive, and I know there is quite a debate around organic and non-GMO foods. Oats are heavily coated in glyphosate, a herbicide that has unfortunately been linked to cancer. Oats are a staple item in my pantry, and I budget for organic oats.
What are ways to change up your protein bites?
Here are 6 ways to mix up your protein ball recipes:
- add protein powder (you will need to adjust the measurement of water to form the dough)
- substitute nut butter with sunflower seed butter as a good alternative and nut-free option
- mix in ground flax seed
- sprinkle chia seeds in the dough
- add raisins or dried cranberries
- add shredded coconut (this is my favorite addition!)
Why Should I Add Protein to Snacks?
It is so tempting to just grab an apple or banana for your kids during snack time, but it is best to provide that fruit with protein. A protein helps stabilize blood sugar which prevents a great big spike in glucose. A spike is often followed by a big dip, the sugar crash. Sugar crash symptoms include mood swings and fatigue. These are symptoms we want to avoid.
Four Reasons to add protein to your kid’s snacks:
- helps control their appetite
- aids in growth development
- assists in healing the body
- regulates and stabilizes blood sugar
How to Get Kids Involved in the Kitchen?
This protein ball recipe is a great recipe for little beginners in the kitchen. They can practice lots of skills without being around heat or a sharp knife.
Here is a list of tasks for kids in the kitchen to make this energy bite recipe:
- gather ingredients
- measure ingredients using both measuring cup and spoons
- pour ingredients into the bowl of the food processor
- learn to properly use the food processor*
- form the dough into balls (using their hands is a great sensory activity for kids, but a cookie scoop does limit the mess)
- clean the kitchen (all but the food processor blade)
* Please consider your child’s age for appropriateness for each marked task. Always supervise your child in the kitchen. You know your child best and understand their skills and awareness.
How to make Almond Protein Energy Bites for Kids?
Equipment
- food processor
- spatula
Ingredient List
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp sea salt (or your favorite salt)
- 1 tbsp water
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (or substitute with other favorite toppings)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Almond Energy Bites for Kids
- First, pour one cup of rolled oats into the food processor and grind until fine.
- Then, combine almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, salt, and water in the bowl of the food processor. Process until the dough begins to form. If the dough is too dry, add a tsp of water, or if too wet, then add a tsp of oats until you can make a dough ball.
- Now, fold in chocolate chips with a spatula.
- Next, form the dough into balls, and ENJOY your tasty snack! Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Other Healthy Kid-Friendly Snack Options:
Homemade Applesauce
Three-ingredient instant pot applesauce recipe without any added sugar. This is a healthy snack for the whole family. Get the recipe HERE.
Electrolyte Drink Recipe for Kids
Kids need to stay hydrated, and sometimes that can be quite the challenge whether they are fighting sickness or spending a day in the sun. This wholesome recipe for a healthy homemade electrolyte drink is just the thing. Get the recipe HERE.
Creamed Spinach
This creamed spinach recipe is so yummy! I use it as a dip for my kids and the love it. Get the recipe HERE.
Thanks for Stopping By!
Finally, I want to thank you for stopping by! Please say Hi in the comment section and share with me your favorite healthy snack option. If you make these deliciously easy Almond Butter Energy Bites for kids, please leave a comment and give this recipe a star rating.
– With Great Joy, Katie
P.S. If you love these Almond Butter Protein Bites for Kids, look for more healthy snack options. COMING SOON!
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Almond Butter Protein Bites for Kids
Equipment
- food processor
- spatula
Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp sea salt (or your favorite salt)
- 1 tbsp water
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (or substitute with favorite toppings)
Instructions
- First, pour one cup of rolled oats into the food processor and grind until fine.
- Then, combine almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, salt, and water in the bowl of the food processor. Process until the dough begins to form. If the dough is too dry, add a tsp of water, or if too wet, then add a tsp of oats until you can make a dough ball.
- Now, fold in the chocolate chips with a spatula.
- Next, form the dough into balls, and ENJOY! Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Pinned to save for later. I’ve had a penutbutter version of this but yours looks so much better. And I like the swap out ideas!
One of my girls has a peanut allergy. I use to make them with peanut butter. I find that I like them better with Almond butter now. š
We love this recipe Katie! Next time, Iām substituting the maple syrup for honey, but still super delicious. š
Oh, honey would be an excellent substitute! I’ll have to mix it up next time and give it a try.