As a mama I’m always on the hunt for fun, simple, & healthy snack ideas to make with my little ones. Bonus points if they use healthier ingredients and can be used to make a normal day a little more special. These quick & easy Heart Energy Bites are oh so tasty, fun to make and perfect for creating memories in the kitchen with your little sous chef! Triple win in my book.

In an attempt to make healthier treats this year (hello Christmas sugar overload) we took our favorite Energy Bite recipe from Smashed Peas and Carrots and gave it a little Valentine’s makeover.  I mean what’s not to love about mini heart shaped snacks?!

Speaking of mini. Did I mention that these are wonderful to make with little chefs? Well they are! Your kiddos are sure to love making them and the best part is that you don’t have to feel bad if they try to sneak a bite or three. Just my kiddos?

They’re almost too pretty to eat. Almost.

These little bites are perfect for a mid morning snack especially when paired with a cold glass of milk and some favorite books about love. Do you see any of your favorites?

QUICK & EASY HEART ENERGY BITES

Ingredients

1 Cup Oatmeal
1/2 Cup Peanut Butter
1/3 Cup Honey
1/2 Cup Unsweetened Coconut Flakes (We like to slightly toast ours)
1/2 Cup Ground Flaxseed
1/2 Cup Mini Chocolate Chips
1/2 Cup Dried Cranberries
1 tsp Vanilla

Directions
1  | Mix all of the ingredients together in a large mixing bowl
2 | Line a baking sheet with wax paper and scoop the mixture onto the wax paper
3 | Using your fingers press the mixture into a rectangle shape (about 1″ thick)
4 | Refrigerate for about 15-30 minutes (This makes it much easier for the hearts to hold their shape)
5 | Use a heart shaped cookie cutter to cut out hearts. Enjoy!

You can store the remaining bites in an air-tight container in the refrigerator. Although, we love these so much that it’s hard to keep them around for too long!

Recipe Slightly Adapted from Smashed Peas & Carrots

I hope you enjoy this tasty snack that’s a perfect little pick me up for Valentine’s Day or any day in between! Go whip up a batch and spread some love.