SunButter Jelly Power Bites

Homemade SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites: Your Ultimate Nut-Free, No-Bake Power Snack

SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites split open and served on white plates with SunButter and jelly jars on the side

Life gets busy. Between work, family, and personal pursuits, finding time for healthy eating can be a real challenge. We’ve all been there: staring into the fridge, desperate for a quick, wholesome snack that actually satisfies, only to grab something less ideal. This is where these **SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites** come to the rescue! Crafted with simple, plant-based ingredients like hearty oats, naturally sweet Medjool dates, creamy No-Sugar-Added SunButter, and your favorite jam, these bites are designed to be the perfect on-the-go fuel. They offer a delightful blend of plant-based protein and complex carbohydrates, ensuring sustained energy without the dreaded sugar crash. Say goodbye to mindless snacking and hello to your new favorite energizing treat!

The Quest for the Perfect Healthy Snack

In a world that constantly demands our energy, having readily available, nutritious snacks is non-negotiable for maintaining focus and well-being. The struggle is real when you’re juggling multiple roles – from dog parenting to yoga instructing to recipe development – and the fridge offers no immediate answers. Often, the easiest option becomes a quick sugar fix, leading to an inevitable energy slump. That’s why I was thrilled to discover the concept of prepackaged peanut butter and jelly bites, a brilliant idea for a convenient, post-workout or mid-day pick-me-up. However, relying on store-bought options can get expensive, and I prefer knowing exactly what goes into my food. So, I set out to create my own homemade version, and I couldn’t be happier with the result! These **SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites** are not just easy to make; they’re also a delicious, allergen-friendly alternative that keeps you powered up throughout your day.

ingredients for SunButter & Jelly Bliss balls on white board

What Makes These SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites So Special?

These aren’t just any energy bites; they’re a carefully crafted combination designed for maximum flavor and nutritional benefit. At their core, these are nutrient-dense bliss balls with a delightful, gooey jelly center, making them a portable and mess-free spin on the classic PB&J. What truly sets them apart is the use of SunButter, transforming them into an incredible allergen-friendly snack that everyone can enjoy.

Here’s a closer look at the key ingredients you’ll need:

  • Medjool Dates: These naturally sweet, caramel-like fruits are the binding agent and provide natural sweetness, eliminating the need for refined sugars. Their stickiness is crucial for holding the dough together.
  • Gluten-Free Oat Flour: A fantastic source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, oat flour provides sustained energy. You can easily make your own by blending certified gluten-free rolled oats into a fine flour.
  • No Sugar Added SunButter: The star of the show! This sunflower seed butter offers a rich, nutty flavor similar to peanut butter but is entirely nut-free, making these bites safe for those with peanut or tree nut allergies. It’s packed with plant-based protein and healthy fats.
  • Your Favorite Jelly or Jam: Whether homemade or store-bought, the jelly provides that iconic “jelly” flavor burst. A thicker consistency works best for freezing and ensures the perfect gooey center. Consider a no-sugar-added or naturally sweetened option for an even healthier profile.

That’s it! Just four core ingredients stand between you and these delectable, energizing treats.

jelly dollops on parchment lined baking sheet

Crafting the Perfect Jelly Centers: A Sweet Surprise

The secret to these **SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites** lies in their irresistible, perfectly contained jelly center. To ensure the jelly doesn’t ooze out and creates a firm, sweet core, we give it a quick freeze.

Follow these simple steps:

  1. Begin by scooping out approximately ½ teaspoon portions of your chosen jelly. Aim for small, uniform “jelly balls.”
  2. Place these jelly portions onto a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes them easy to remove once frozen.
  3. Transfer the plate or baking sheet to the freezer for about 10-15 minutes. The goal is for the jelly to harden enough to be easily handled and wrapped by the SunButter dough.
  4. Pro Tip: The exact freezing time can vary depending on your jelly’s consistency. If it’s particularly thin, it might need closer to an hour to firm up properly. A thicker jam or fruit preserve will generally harden faster.

Medjool dates blended in Vitamix blender

Preparing the Hearty SunButter Dough

Next, we’ll create the delicious, nutrient-dense outer layer for our energy bites – the SunButter dough. This simple mixture comes together quickly and forms the perfect wrapper for your frozen jelly centers.

Here’s how to prepare it:

  1. Add your Medjool dates to a food processor or a high-speed blender. Process until they form a thick, uniform paste. If your dates seem a bit dry, you can soak them in warm water for 5-10 minutes, then drain thoroughly before blending. This will make them gooey and easier to process.
  2. Transfer the date paste to a mixing bowl.
  3. Add the gluten-free oat flour and the No-Sugar-Added SunButter to the bowl.
  4. Stir the ingredients together with a sturdy spatula. The mixture might seem stiff and challenging to combine at first, but with a bit of kneading and persistence, it will come together into a smooth, pliable dough.
  5. Quick Tip for Oat Flour: If you don’t have oat flour on hand, you can easily make your own! Simply blend rolled oats in a high-speed blender until you achieve a fine flour consistency. Measure it after blending for accuracy.

The resulting dough will be sweet, slightly nutty, and ready to be shaped.

Medjool date paste, SunButter, and oat flour in glass bowl with spatula

SunButter batter in bowl with spatula

Assembling Your SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites

Now comes the fun part – bringing it all together to create these delightful energy bites!

Follow these steps for assembly:

  1. Scoop out approximately 1.5 tablespoon portions of the SunButter dough. Roll each portion into a smooth ball between your palms.
  2. Gently flatten each ball into a small disc. You can do this by pressing it between your hands or using the bottom of a flat glass.
  3. Place these flattened discs onto another parchment-lined cookie sheet, ready for the jelly.
  4. Retrieve your hardened jelly “balls” from the freezer. It’s important to work quickly during this step to prevent the jelly from melting too much.
  5. Take one SunButter dough disc and place a frozen jelly “ball” in its center. Carefully use your fingers to fold the dough around the jelly, sealing it completely. Ensure there are no gaps where the jelly could escape.
  6. Once sealed, gently roll the filled dough back into a tight ball with your hands. This creates a neat, smooth outer layer.
  7. Repeat this process until you have used all your jelly and SunButter dough. This recipe typically yields about 15-18 delicious energy bites, depending on their size.

SunButter balls on parchment paper smashed with small glass jar

SunButter discs on plate

Why You’ll Love These Allergen-Friendly Energy Bites

These **SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites** are more than just a tasty treat; they’re a powerhouse of nutrition and convenience, making them an ideal choice for almost anyone.

  • Nut-Free & Allergen-Friendly: Thanks to SunButter, these bites are completely free of peanuts and tree nuts, making them a safe snack option for those with common food allergies or for school lunchboxes.
  • Naturally Sweetened: Medjool dates and your chosen jam provide all the sweetness needed, without any refined sugars or artificial additives.
  • Plant-Based & Vegan: Made entirely from plant-derived ingredients, they are perfect for vegan diets and anyone looking to incorporate more whole foods.
  • Gluten-Free: Using certified gluten-free oat flour ensures these bites are suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
  • Rich in Fiber & Protein: Oats, dates, and SunButter combine to offer a good source of fiber and plant-based protein, contributing to satiety and sustained energy.
  • Portable & Convenient: Their bite-sized format and sealed jelly center make them incredibly easy to pack and enjoy on the go, whether you’re heading to the gym, work, or on an adventure.
  • Easy to Customize: With endless possibilities for different jams and additional mix-ins, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences.

SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites served on white plates with SunButter and jelly jars on the side

Tips for Success & Creative Variations

While this recipe is incredibly straightforward, a few tips can ensure your **SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites** turn out perfectly every time. Plus, don’t shy away from experimenting with different flavors!

  • SunButter Choices: While I highly recommend No Sugar Added SunButter for a balanced flavor, feel free to use other SunButter varieties like Creamy, Crunchy, or Organic for different textures and taste profiles. Any nut or seed butter can technically work, but SunButter offers that unique allergen-friendly benefit and delicious sunflower seed taste.
  • Jelly and Jam Alternatives:
    • Consistency Matters: A thicker jelly or jam will freeze more solidly, making it much easier to work with during assembly. Runnier varieties may require a longer freezing time.
    • Flavor Adventures: My strawberry chia seed jelly was fantastic, but imagine raspberry, apricot, or grape! For a seasonal twist, try SunButter with apple butter in the fall – it’s an incredible combination you won’t regret. Fruit preserves or even thicker fruit butters can also be excellent choices.
    • Nutritional Boost: Opt for no-sugar-added or naturally sweetened jams to keep the nutritional profile optimal.
  • Dough Consistency: If your date paste seems too dry, add a teaspoon of water or a bit more SunButter until it reaches a thick, pliable consistency. If it’s too sticky, a little extra oat flour can help.
  • Add-ins: For extra texture or flavor, consider folding in a handful of mini chocolate chips (dairy-free for vegan), shredded coconut, or additional seeds (like chia seeds or flax seeds) into the SunButter dough before forming the discs.

SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites split open and served on white plates with SunButter and jelly jars on the side

Storage and Meal Prep Made Easy

These **SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites** are a meal prep dream! They store exceptionally well, making it easy to have healthy snacks on hand for days or even weeks.

  • Refrigerator Storage: Store your energy bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The cold helps maintain their shape and keeps the jelly centers firm.
  • Freezer Storage: For longer-term meal prep, these bites freeze beautifully! Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply pull it out and let it thaw at room temperature for a few minutes, or enjoy it chilled directly from the freezer for a firmer texture.
  • On-the-Go Convenience: They hold up well at room temperature for a day, making them perfect for packing in a lunchbox, gym bag, or picnic basket. I love keeping mine in a reusable silicone bag for easy access throughout my day.

Don’t worry if a little tear occurs in the dough; the bites will still be absolutely delicious and provide that satisfying burst of flavor.

SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites split open and served on white plates with SunButter and jelly jars on the side

Serving Suggestions: Fuel Your Day, Your Way!

These **SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites** are incredibly versatile and perfect for any time you need a healthy, satisfying boost.

  • Pre or Post-Workout Snack: The combination of complex carbs from oats and dates, along with plant-based protein and healthy fats from SunButter, makes them an ideal fuel source for your workouts and recovery.
  • Mid-Morning or Afternoon Pick-Me-Up: Combat the mid-day slump with a couple of these energizing bites, providing sustained energy without the sugar crash.
  • Healthy Dessert Alternative: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a wholesome option that feels indulgent but is packed with goodness.
  • On-the-Go Adventures: Their portable nature makes them an excellent companion for hiking, traveling, or any busy day out.

Enjoy the delicious, chewy texture and the delightful surprise of the jelly center. They truly are the perfect bite-sized snack to keep you going!

SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites split open and served on white plates with SunButter and jelly jars on the side

More Delicious Bliss Ball Recipes

If you love these SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites, be sure to explore more of my favorite bliss ball recipes for endless healthy snacking options:

  • Grain-Free Chocolate Cherry Bliss Balls

  • Blueberry Muffin Energy Balls

  • Beet Brownie Bliss Balls

  • Pumpkin Apple Bliss Balls

  • SunButter Date Bliss Balls

  • Lemon Chia Bliss Balls

  • Carrot Cake Bliss Balls

  • Gingerbread Bliss Balls

  • Pumpkin SunButter Chocolate Chip Bliss Balls

  • Snickerdoodle Oat Bliss Balls

  • Maple Walnut Bliss Balls

  • Raspberry Cashew Cheesecake Bliss Balls

  • SunButter & Jelly Bliss Balls

  • Tahini Chocolate Chip Bliss Balls

I Want to Hear From You!

If you decide to make this amazing **SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites** recipe, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Your feedback helps me continue to create delicious and wholesome recipes.

  • Please take a moment to leave a comment, a star rating, and a review below to share your thoughts.
  • Don’t forget to give me a shout-out on Instagram! Tag #floraandvino to show off your fantastic creations.
  • Check out my Pinterest page to discover more healthy recipes like this one and save them for later inspiration.
  • Love what you see and want more healthy plant-based goodness delivered straight to your inbox? Visit my homepage and subscribe to my newsletter!

XO Lauren

SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites split open and served on white plates with SunButter and jelly jars on the side


Print

clock icon cutlery icon flag icon folder icon instagram icon pinterest icon facebook icon print icon squares icon heart icon heart solid icon

img 35092 14

SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites



5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews


  • Author:
    Flora & Vino


  • Total Time:
    30 minutes


  • Yield:
    15-18 balls


  • Diet:
    Vegan
Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Description

SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites made with oats, Medjool dates, No-Sugar-Added SunButter, and your favorite jam. The perfect snack!


Ingredients

  • 1 cup super gooey Medjool Dates
  • 1 cup Gluten Free Oat Flour
  • 1 cup No Sugar Added SunButter
  • ¼ cup jelly (homemade or store bought)


Instructions

  1. First, use a 1/2 teaspoon measure to scoop out jelly “balls” and place them on a parchment paper lined plate or baking sheet. Place in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes to harden.
  2. Add the Medjool dates to a food processor or high speed blender and process until you have a thick paste. Transfer the date paste to a bowl and add in the oat flour and SunButter. Stir with a spatula until you have a smooth batter. It will be hard to combine at first, but will come together after a few kneads!
  3. Scoop the SunButter dough out in ~1.5 TBSP balls. Flatten the balls into small discs by pressing them between your hands or flattening with the bottom of a glass. Place them on another parchment lined cookie sheet.
  4. Once the jelly “balls” are hard, remove them from the freezer. Work quickly to ensure that the jelly doesn’t melt! Press one jelly “ball” into the center of the SunButter dough ball and use your fingers to fold the dough around the frozen jelly to seal it off. Roll again with your hands so you have a tight ball. Repeat this process until you’re out of jelly and SunButter balls!
  5. Store the SunButter & Jelly Energy Bites in the fridge for up to two weeks or the freezer long term storage.

Notes

Recipe adapted from From My Bowl

  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Cook Time: 0 mins
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Blender, Hand-mix
  • Cuisine: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Refined-Sugar-Free

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @flora_and_vino on Instagram and hashtag it #floraandvino

This post is brought to you by SunButter, but all words and eats are my own. Thanks for supporting the sponsors that keep me hungry!