Healthy No-Bake Cookie Bites with Coconut Oil

If you are one of the many people who make a resolution to eat healthier this new year, then you should give this recipe a try! Even though these cookie bites are so delicious, they are also packed with protein and a variety of nutrients to give you a little burst of energy. Just pop one in your mouth when you need a snack or when you have a craving for something sweet!

Healthy No-Bake Cookie Bites with Coconut Oil

Servings: 20–24 | Time: 10–15 minutes active; 30 minutes inactive | Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups (158 g) oats (quick or rolled)
• 1/3 cup (54 g) chia seeds
• 1/4 cup (24 g) cocoa or cacao powder
• Pinch of sea salt
• 1/2 cup (125 g) almond butter (or other nut butter)
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) honey
• 1/2 cup (96 g) coconut oil
• 3/4 cup (139 g) cooked quinoa*
• 1/2 cup (55 g) unsweetened shredded coconut
• 2–5 drops peppermint essential oil (you could also use orange, cinnamon, or cardamom essential oil, but you may want to start with less)

Instructions:

1. Combine oats, chia seeds, cocoa or cacao powder, and sea salt in a mixing bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, combine almond butter, honey, and coconut oil. Mix well, and then add cooked quinoa. Stir until well combined.
3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients together, and mix well. You may need to use your hands to mix.
4. Stir in a drop of peppermint essential oil. Taste; then add another drop if needed. Repeat until you like the flavor.
5. Place on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper or in a silicone mold.
6. Place in the refrigerator until firm.
7. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

*Note: To cook quinoa, place 1/4 cup (43 g) quinoa and 1/2 cup (120 ml) water in a small pot, and bring to a boil over medium heat. Boil for 5 minutes. Reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork, and continue cooking for 5 more minutes or until the quinoa has absorbed all the water. You can also cook the quinoa in a rice cooker as you would cook regular white rice.