QUICK, SIMPLE, AFFORDABLE SNACKING
Finding That Budget-Friendly Filling Snack
Ever crave that afternoon sweet and salty snack but are tired of reaching for the potato chips and candy bar that leave you with less energy than you already had? There are other simple, budget-friendly options to satisfy that hunger! These days even snagging a $2.45 protein-packed energy bar at the grocery store might trip up your budget. But have no fear; we have the solution for you that is tasty, healthy, easy on the budget (bonus!), and full of energy to get you through the afternoon slump!
Nutritious And Easy on The Wallet
Energy bites are packed with great nutrients, including protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them nutritious and filling. They are also delicious – you’ll feel like you’re treating yourself when you enjoy them. These energy bites are only a few ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and only take a few minutes to whip up! An easy snack to pack for on the go or grab from the fridge when you get a craving. This is just another idea to help you think about your budget and keep on track if you are trying to stay health-conscious.
These energy bites include:
- Old Fashioned Rolled Oats – packed with fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals
- Peanut Butter – contains heart-healthy fats, protein, iron, and vitamins
- Honey – the glue to these delicious snacks
- Dark chocolate – fiber, magnesium, iron, and zinc
- Flax Seed Meal - packed with fiber and protein, as well as a great source of Omega-3 if you don’t enjoy or incorporate much fish in your diet
- Extras: Dried Fruits, Chia Seeds, Nuts, Chocolate Chips, Shredded coconut, etc.
Even if you don’t enjoy cooking, grab a bowl and a spoon (or be bold and get your hands dirty like my five-year-old), and I promise you, too, can achieve the perfectly delicious, filling, and budget-friendly afternoon snack!
Energy Bites Recipe:
(Yields roughly 2 dozen depending on size)
- 2 cups old fashion oats
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- ½ cup dark chocolate (chopped)
- 3 Tb chia seeds
- 2 Tb ground flax seed
Combine all ingredients, then form into small balls. Place in fridge for about 15-20 minutes, then enjoy!
If you’d rather have a bar, mix, roll onto parchment paper, refrigerate, and cut into ideal-sized snack bars.
*Refrigerate in an airtight container for a few days or freeze for up to 3 months.* I promise they won’t even last this long; you’ll enjoy them too much!
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, simple, and filling snack, give this a go! If you have kids invite them into the mess. The beauty in this process is that no matter how some little hands have molded the energy bites, they’re still going to taste delicious and give you that boost of energy you need to make it through your day. Enjoy!
Author: Beth Anne Allen