Banana and prune energy bites (no bake energy snacks)

Banana and prune energy bites can be made in minutes. No scales are needed and no cooking is involved, simply mix the ingredients, shape and pop in the fridge to chill. The flavour is dominated by the banana and prunes resulting in a snack which is not too sweet. If you would prefer a sweeter snack then add some chopped dried dates or apricots. The ingredients for these energy bites are plant based and so can be enjoyed by vegans too. The quantities in the recipe below will make around 14 energy bites.

Ingredients

• 5 tablespoons oats
• 4 tablespoons prunes
• 1 medium sized banana
• 2 tablespoons chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons flax seeds
• 1 teaspoon vanilla essence

Equipment needed to make banana and prune energy bites

• Large baking bowl
• Small bowl to mash the banana
• Chopping board
• Tablespoon
• Fork
• Teaspoon
• Plate or board for the finished energy bites

How to make banana and prune energy bites

Chop the prunes into small pieces, approximately 0.5 cm to 1 cm across.

Mash the banana in a small bowl using a fork.

Place the oats and chopped prunes in a large baking bowl.

Add the mashed banana, flax seeds, chocolate chips and vanilla essence, ie, the remainder of the ingredients, and mix together. Set aside for about 15 to 20 minutes or so to allow the ingredients to adhere.

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Take a heaped teaspoon of the mixture and form into a ball using your hands. Place on a plate. Repeat until the remainder of the mixture is used up.

Cover the energy bites and place in the fridge for around a couple of hours.

Tips

1. Don't worry if the mixture looks as though it will not stick together. The mixture will hold together after it has been set aside for a short time.
2. The energy bites should be covered and stored in the fridge and will keep for around 2 to 3 days.
3. The energy bites make an ideal snack while out and about.
4. Keep a supply of energy bites in the fridge as a healthy alternative to biscuits or cake.
5. Banana and prune energy bites are perfect for kids' lunchboxes (just tell them they are banana and chocolate chip energy bites!).
6. If you prefer an energy snack which is a little sweeter, try adding some chopped dried dates or apricots.