Peanut Butter Oat Energy Bites with M&Ms

Peanut Butter Oat Energy Bites with M&Ms are no‑bake snack balls made from oats and peanut butter, studded with colorful candy pieces. Nutritious and fun, they make a great grab-and-go treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

They’re quick, wholesome, and portable. With wholesome oats and protein from peanut butter, plus a hint of sweetness from M&Ms, they satisfy both health and snack cravings. Kids love them, and they’re ideal for lunchboxes or hikes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

rolled oats
peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
honey or maple syrup
vanilla extract
mini M&M candies (or chocolate chips)
optional mix-ins: chia seeds, flaxseed, chopped nuts, dried fruit

Directions

1. In a bowl, mix oats, peanut butter, honey, and vanilla until well combined.
2. Fold in mini M&Ms and any desired mix-ins.
3. Scoop and roll into 1‑inch balls using your hands or a small scoop.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to set.
5. Enjoy or pack for later.

Servings and Timing

Servings: about 20 energy bites
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use almond or cashew butter if you prefer.
• Substitute chocolate chips or raisins for M&Ms.
• Add protein powder or oats flour for a denser bite.
• Roll in shredded coconut or chia seeds after forming.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can freeze portions for up to 3 months — thaw in the fridge before eating. No reheating needed.

FAQs

Are these healthy?

They combine whole oats and nut butter with moderate sweetness—great as a balanced snack.

Can I make them nut-free?

Use sunflower seed butter or another seed butter instead of peanut.

Can I use quick oats instead?

Yes, though texture will be softer; you may need to reduce binder slightly.

Why do my bites fall apart?

Add a bit more honey or nut butter to bind, or chill longer.

Are M&Ms necessary?

No — chocolate chips or raisins work well, too.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes — just keep the same ratios.

Is freezing okay?

Yes, freeze in single layers on a tray then transfer to freezer bags.

Can kids help make them?

Definitely — mixing and rolling are kid‑friendly tasks.

Do they get sweeter over time?

They stay fairly stable, but flavor may intensify after resting.

How to serve them?

Serve cold or at room temperature; they’re ideal as a quick energy snack.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Oat Energy Bites with M&Ms are a perfect combination of nutrition and fun. Whether for a midday pick-me-up or a kid-friendly snack, they’re easy, tasty, and versatile.

Peanut Butter Oat Energy Bites with M&Ms

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Peanut Butter Oat Energy Bites with M&Ms are a quick, no-bake snack packed with wholesome oats, creamy peanut butter, honey, and colorful candy for a fun and energizing treat.

• Author: Emma Harper
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 20 bites 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup mini M&Ms
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine oats, ground flaxseed (if using), and salt.
2. Add peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.
3. Stir in mini M&Ms and chocolate chips (if using).
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes to make rolling easier.
5. Using your hands or a small scoop, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

• Use natural peanut butter for a cleaner ingredient list, but ensure it’s not too runny.
• Substitute M&Ms with dried fruit or nuts for a healthier version.
• Add a scoop of protein powder to make them more filling.
• If mixture is too sticky, add a bit more oats; if too dry, add a little more honey or peanut butter.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bite
• Calories: 110
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 40mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg