Chocolate Peanut Butter Power Bites

It’s 2023 (can you believe it?!) and we are ringing in the New Year with a new go-to indulgence: Chocolate Peanut Butter Power Bites. This nutrient-dense snack is perfect for anyone and everyone. It works wonderfully as a pre or post-workout, for picky young kiddos, or as a healthy solution for your late-afternoon sweet fix!

Every time I make these Chocolate Peanut Butter Power Bites, I think of my young friends in India. In 2019, ABK readers donated money to help residents of a leprosy colony in Northern India.

We worked with Rising Star Outreach, a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide medical care, education, and micro-grants for the leprosy-affected in India. In addition to raising enough money to build a kitchen for the colony residents (so meals no longer needed to be prepared on the ground), we also had the opportunity to teach the children about proper nutrition.

My dear friend Sally Read and I filled our suitcases with ingredients to make power bites with the children at the school in Bihar. Speaking of India, if you haven’t already, be sure to check out my Easy Curry Coconut Shrimp Curry or Indian Butter Chicken, I think you will love both recipes!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Power Bites are extremely easy to make and store. They keep for weeks in the refrigerator, and for months in the freezer. And the best part – they are totally customizable! This little snack can be made gluten free and/or dairy free as well. The optional add-ins and combinations are endless! Let’s break down what you need to create Power Bites.

What you need to make Chocolate Peanut Butter Power Bites:

Peanut Butter

While the base of this recipe is rich peanut butter (or PB powder + water!), you can always swap that out for almond butter, cashew butter, or a combination of the two. This is a great option if you want to play with a variety of flavors, or if you have a peanut allergy in the family!

Chocolate Protein Powder

This little extra boost of protein is perfect to sustain energy and keep blood sugar levels more stable until your next meal. Any type of protein powder will work – plant based or whey. You can even use collagen peptides if that’s your go-to supplement.

Honey

Just a touch to naturally sweeten your power bites! You can also try 100% natural maple syrup as a substitute.

Oats

A must-have for this recipe! Old fashioned oats (also called rolled oats), offer a nutritious dose of whole grains and fiber. They’ll also help your power bites to have a nice chewy texture. 

Shredded Coconut

Use sweetened or unsweetened coconut. Coconut will also contribute wholesome fats and texture to the power bites.

Optional Add-Ins

I usually choose a combination of chopped dried fruit, chopped nuts, and chocolate. Here are a few options to consider:

• Craisins
• Raisins
• Apricots
• Cherries
• Dates
• Mini Chocolate Chips
• White Chocolate Chips
• Mini M&Ms
• Cashews
• Peanuts
• Pecans
• Walnuts
• Flax seeds
• Flax seed meal
• Chia seeds

Whip these up in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, or by hand in a large mixing bowl. Use a small cookie scoop to portion each power bite before rolling, and store in the fridge or freezer! Enjoy!