Delectable Cherry Almond Snack Bites
Highlighted under: Sweet Treats & Homemade Desserts
I love creating quick and easy snacks that are both satisfying and delicious. These Delectable Cherry Almond Snack Bites have become my go-to treat when I need a little pick-me-up during the day. With the perfect blend of chewy cherries and crunchy almonds, these bites are not only nutritious but also incredibly tasty. I enjoy making these with my kids, letting them help mix the ingredients. It's a fun way to bond while fueling our bodies with healthy snacks. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll love them too!
When I first experimented with these snack bites, I wanted to create something healthy yet indulgent. I found that combining dried cherries with chopped almonds offered a delightful texture and flavor balance. The sweetness of the cherries complements the nuttiness of the almonds perfectly. I also added a hint of vanilla to elevate the taste further. It was a hit during family movie night, and now they never last long!
One tip I’ve learned is to press the mixture tightly into the mold to ensure the bites hold their shape. After a little time in the fridge, they become delightfully firm and easy to grab on-the-go. You can even customize them by adding different nuts or seeds based on your preference. Get ready to enjoy a snack that’s healthy, fun to make, and packed with flavor!
Why You'll Love These Snack Bites
- A delightful blend of sweet cherries and crunchy almonds
- Nutritious ingredients that provide energy without the guilt
- Perfect portion size for a quick and satisfying snack
Ingredient Insights
The dried cherries in this recipe not only provide a burst of natural sweetness but also contribute significant fiber and antioxidants, making these snack bites a wholesome choice. When selecting dried cherries, opt for those without added sugar to keep the snack as healthy as possible. Their chewy texture complements the crunchy almonds beautifully, while both ingredients work together to provide sustained energy throughout your day.
Almond butter is a star player in this recipe, adding creaminess and healthy fats. If you're allergic to nuts or prefer a different flavor profile, you can substitute it with sunflower seed butter or a soy nut butter. These alternatives will maintain the texture but offer a unique taste that pairs well with the other ingredients. Just be sure to check for any allergens in these substitutes, especially for school-bound snacks.
Perfecting Your Snack Bites
While shaping the bites, it's crucial to pack the mixture tightly. If you find that the mixture is too crumbly to form into balls, try adding an extra spoonful of almond butter or a touch more honey or maple syrup. This will help create a cohesive mixture that holds together well. You can also try wetting your hands slightly with water before rolling to prevent sticking.
For those who prefer bars instead of individual bites, pressing the mixture into a lined baking dish is a great option. Ensure it's evenly packed and smooth on top for consistent cutting later. After chilling, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles. This method not only makes portioning easier but also allows for creative topping options if you desire something extra, like a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of dark chocolate.
Ingredients
For the Snack Bites
- 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
- 1 cup almonds, chopped
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
Instructions
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the chopped dried cherries, almonds, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and rolled oats. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined and form a sticky mixture.
Shape the Bites
Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls or press them into a lined baking dish for bars. Ensure they are packed tightly.
Chill and Serve
Place the formed bites in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up. Once chilled, they can be served immediately or stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize these snack bites by adding other ingredients like chia seeds or shredded coconut for extra flavor and nutrition.
Make-Ahead Tips
These snack bites are ideal for meal prep, and you can easily make them in batches. Once formed, the bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just layer them in a freezer-safe bag with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll keep well frozen for up to three months.
When ready to consume, simply thaw at room temperature for about 15 minutes, or pop them in the fridge overnight. This flexibility makes them an excellent on-the-go option, perfect for busy mornings or post-workout refuels. I love adding them to lunch boxes for a nutritious snack that keeps everyone satisfied.
Experimenting with Flavors
Feel free to customize these snack bites to suit your taste preferences. Incorporating a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of sea salt can elevate the flavor profile significantly. You can also include other dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for added variety, adjusting the quantity of oats slightly to balance the moisture from the added fruit.
If you're looking for an extra protein boost, consider mixing in a scoop of your favorite protein powder. Just make sure to balance the moisture content to maintain the right consistency. The versatility of this recipe allows you to experiment while keeping it nutritious and satisfying.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?
Fresh cherries have a high moisture content and may not hold together well. It's best to use dried cherries.
→ How do I store these snack bites?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for longer shelf life.
→ Can I substitute the almond butter?
Yes, you can use peanut butter or sun butter if preferred.
→ Are these snack bites gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free oats, these snack bites are gluten-free.
Delectable Cherry Almond Snack Bites
I love creating quick and easy snacks that are both satisfying and delicious. These Delectable Cherry Almond Snack Bites have become my go-to treat when I need a little pick-me-up during the day. With the perfect blend of chewy cherries and crunchy almonds, these bites are not only nutritious but also incredibly tasty. I enjoy making these with my kids, letting them help mix the ingredients. It's a fun way to bond while fueling our bodies with healthy snacks. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll love them too!
Created by: Lena
Recipe Type: Sweet Treats & Homemade Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 bites
What You'll Need
For the Snack Bites
- 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
- 1 cup almonds, chopped
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the chopped dried cherries, almonds, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and rolled oats. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined and form a sticky mixture.
Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls or press them into a lined baking dish for bars. Ensure they are packed tightly.
Place the formed bites in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up. Once chilled, they can be served immediately or stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize these snack bites by adding other ingredients like chia seeds or shredded coconut for extra flavor and nutrition.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 1mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 9g
- Protein: 4g