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Chewy Brown Butter Snickerdoodle Energy Bites

brown butter snickerdoodle energy bites - featured image

These chewy brown butter snickerdoodle energy bites are a quick, easy, and delicious snack perfect for school lunches or anytime you need a wholesome treat. The brown butter adds a nutty richness that complements the cinnamon for a classic snickerdoodle flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned, 135g)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (brown butter, 85g)
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut or almond butter, 125g)
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup (60ml)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (45g)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts (30g)

Instructions

  1. Brown the butter (about 5 minutes): Place 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently as the butter melts and foams. When milk solids brown and smell nutty, remove from heat immediately. Transfer to a heatproof bowl and let cool for 3-5 minutes until warm but not hot.
  2. Mix dry ingredients (2 minutes): In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups rolled oats, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed, and a pinch of salt. Stir to distribute evenly.
  3. Combine wet ingredients (2 minutes): Add 1/2 cup nut butter, 1/4 cup maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the cooled brown butter. Mix until smooth and combined.
  4. Combine wet and dry (3 minutes): Pour wet mixture over dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon until fully combined and sticky dough forms. Fold in optional mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts if using. Adjust texture with a teaspoon of water or maple syrup if too dry, or more oats if too wet.
  5. Scoop and shape (5 minutes): Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to portion dough. Roll each portion between palms to form 1-inch balls. Place on a baking sheet or parchment-lined plate with space between.
  6. Chill to set (30 minutes): Refrigerate energy bites for at least 30 minutes to firm up and develop chewy texture. Alternatively, freeze for 15 minutes if short on time.

Notes

Do not skip cooling the brown butter to prevent nut butter from seizing or syrup separating. Stir butter constantly while browning to avoid burning. Rolling bites with slightly damp hands prevents sticking. Chilling is important for texture and firmness. Adjust texture with water, maple syrup, or oats as needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: energy bites, snickerdoodle, brown butter, school snack, chewy snack, healthy snack, no bake, quick snack