CHOCOLATE + ALMOND BUTTER NO BAKE BITES

Hey y'all!
   Fall is officially here! Even though the weather has not received the memo yet. I find this time of year it is always a good time to discuss the importance of snacks due to kids going back to school. Now, snacks are not just for kids. Today, I am sharing why snacks are important for everyone plus one of my favorite quick and easy snack ideas. 

Why are snacks so important?

• Maintain energy levels throughout the day - We've all been there. It's 3:00 and we are exhausted. To stop this slump from happening, it is important to eat throughout the day. This includes snacks. 
• Helps to not overeat at meals - When we are busy at work or schools (or both), why is it that our food intake is the first thing to go. We are running late and forget to eat breakfast then we get busy and lunch seems to go by so quick. Then, all of sudden we are finally home for the day and ravenous! This feeling typically makes us to eat waaaaay to much and make poor food choices. Snacks fill in this gap and keep us to feel satiated throughout the day.
• Increase nutrient intake - Snack time is a perfect to increase nutrients that we may not be getting enough of at each meals. Plan to make each snack as nutrient dense as possible.

The nutrition these Chocolate + Almond Butter No Bake Bites provide :

• Chia seeds add a boost of fiber, omega 3's and protein. Want another recipe using these magical seeds? Check this one out. 
• Hemp seeds add protein, fiber and healthy fats.
• Flax seeds provide omega 3's and fiber.
• Old Fashioned Oats are a whole grain and include the fiber, B vitamins and keep us fuller longer. 
• Almond butter adds a boost of protein and healthy fats. (Aim for a nut butter with simply almonds, peanuts, etc in the ingredient list.)
• Turmeric is a spice that fights inflammation the body.
  

These No Bake Bites are a perfect snack recipe. They are a one bowl recipe and requires no baking. Throw these in your lunch bag, gym bag, or purse for a quick pick me up. 
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CHOCOLATE & ALMOND BUTTER
​ NO BAKE BITES

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup Old Fashioned Oats
• 2 tablespoons Chia Seeds
• 1.5 tbsp Ground Flax Seeds
• 2 tbsp Hemp Seeds
• 1/2 cup Almond Butter
• 2 teaspoons Honey
• 1.5 teaspoon Cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 1/4 cup Dark Chocolate Chips

DIRECTIONS:

1. Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
2. Roll into 12-15 bites.
3. Place in the refrigerator to firm up, about 20 minutes. 
4. Store in an airtight container.

I hope you enjoy these no bake bites! What are some of your favorite snacks? Share with us by commenting below or by using the hashtag #MealPlanningMethod.
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christy