Peanut butter and jelly is a classic combination that never gets old. These homemade PB & J energy bites take that familiar flavor and turn it into a nutrient-dense, bite-sized snack. Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, these homemade pb & j energy bits are perfect for after-school snacks or a quick bite before activities.
Made with just five simple ingredients, they come together quickly—no baking required. Plus, they’re a great way to get in extra fruit, thanks to freeze-dried strawberries.
Table of Contents
Why Energy Balls Are a Great Snack for Kids
Energy balls are a balanced, nutrient-dense option that helps keep kids full and energized. Here’s why they’re a great addition to snack time:
- Protein & healthy fats: Peanut butter and flaxseed provide the nutrients kids need for sustained energy.
- Fiber: Oats and flaxseed add fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps hunger at bay.
- Fruit intake: The freeze-dried strawberries make it easier to add fruit to your child’s diet in a fun, snackable way.
Energy Ball Variations
Energy balls are super versatile! You can switch up the flavors and ingredients to keep things interesting. If you’re looking for more ideas, try my other energy ball recipes:
- Christmas Peanut Butter Bliss Balls
- Monster Cookie Protein Balls
- S’mores Protein Balls
- Chocolate Strawberry Bliss Balls
- Birthday Cake Protein Balls
Each one offers a unique twist while still being a fun, healthy snack for your family.
What You Need for Homemade PB & J Energy Bites
Ingredients:
- 3 cups oats – I find using quick oats makes it easier for the balls to stick together
- 2 cups peanut butter – use whatever peanut butter your family enjoys
- 2 cups freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- ½ cup honey
- ½ cup ground flaxseed – I love Tiny Sprouts Milled Flaxseed
How to Make Homemade PB & J Energy Bites
In a large mixing bowl, add all the ingredients and stir until everything starts to come together, crushing the freeze-dried strawberries as you go. At some point, you’ll realize a spoon just isn’t cutting it—this is your sign to dive in with your hands to get everything fully mixed – I recommend taking any rings off for this part.
Roll into small, bite-sized balls (about 1 inch). If the mixture feels too sticky, pop it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to firm up. You can also use a scooper for consistent size energy bites. Scoopers work great for portioning cookie dough, and muffin mix as well!
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to three months—if they last that long!
Are These Gluten-Free?
Maybe—if you use certified gluten-free oats. While oats themselves don’t contain gluten, they’re often cross-contaminated during processing, so be sure to check the label if you need them to be gluten-free.
How Can I Make These Nut-Free?
To make these homemade pb & j energy bites safe for nut-free schools or allergies, swap the peanut butter for sunflower seed butter. It has a similar consistency and a mild, nutty flavor that works well in this recipe.
Benefits of Freeze-Dried Fruit
Freeze-dried strawberries pack all the flavor and nutrients of fresh berries in a lightweight, shelf-stable form. Unlike dried fruit with added sugar, freeze-dried fruit retains most of its natural vitamins and minerals without extra ingredients. It also provides an intense fruit flavor, making it perfect for recipes like this one.
What Peanut Butter Should I Use?
There’s a lot of debate around peanut butter, but the most important thing is that you enjoy the one you buy for your family. Some prefer more natural peanut butter, which is made with just peanuts and salt. Others stick with classic brands like Skippy or Jif.
While natural peanut butter works well in this recipe since other ingredients balance its plainness, it’s pointless to buy it if you don’t enjoy eating it. Choose what works for your family—because a snack only benefits your child if they actually eat it!
These homemade pb & j energy bites offer a fun, nutritious way to enjoy the flavors of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in a convenient, mess-free form. Try them out and let me know how your family likes them!
How to Store and Freeze PB & J Energy Bites
Store your homemade pb & j energy bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to three months in the freezer—just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating!
Why These Homemade PB & J Energy Bites Are a Must-Try for Busy Moms
These homemade PB & J Energy Bites are the perfect snack for busy days. Packed with protein, fiber, healthy fats, and a burst of freeze-dried strawberries, they’re sure to please even picky eaters.
Easy to make and customizable, they can be made nut-free or sweeter depending on your family’s needs. Whether it’s for lunchboxes or after-school energy, these energy balls are a quick, tasty, and nutritious option everyone will love!
These homemade pb & j energy bites offer a fun, nutritious way to enjoy the flavors of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in a convenient, mess-free form. Try them out and let me know how your family likes them!
Homemade Peanut Butter & Jelly Energy Balls
Ingredients
- 3 cups quick oats
- 2 cups peanut butter
- 2 cups freeze dried strawberries
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup ground flaxseed
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl add all ingredients and mix until fully combined, crushing freeze dried strawberries as you mix. Start by mixing with your spoon then switch to your hands to help incorporate the mix better.
- Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture feels too sticky, refrigerate for 10–15 minutes before rolling.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or the freezer for three months.
