Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s naturally sweetened with banana, packed with oats and nuts, and finished with a decadent dip of melted dark chocolate. They’re easy to make, portable, and satisfying. These bites strike the perfect balance between healthy and indulgent, making them ideal for snacking, pre-workout fuel, or even a light dessert. Plus, they’re vegan, gluten-free (if using certified oats), and made with ingredients I usually already have in my pantry.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1 cup quick oats
1 ripe banana
¼ cup whole raw almonds
2 tablespoons unsweetened coconut flakes
1 tablespoon shelled hemp seeds
1 tablespoon almond butter or other nut butter
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ cup dark chocolate morsels

Directions

1. In a food processor, I combine all ingredients except for the chocolate and process until the mixture forms a soft, sticky ball.

2. I line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Using a tablespoon measure or small scoop, I form 1-inch balls and place them evenly spaced on the baking sheet.

3. To melt the chocolate, I set up a double boiler by placing a glass bowl over a saucepan filled about one-quarter with water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water. I bring the water to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer. I add the dark chocolate morsels to the bowl and stir occasionally until melted and smooth.

4. Using a toothpick, I dip each oat ball halfway into the melted chocolate, then return it to the baking sheet. I repeat until all the bites are coated.

5. I refrigerate the tray for about 1 hour to let the chocolate harden.

6. Once set, I store the bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to enjoy.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 15 pieces.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

I like experimenting with different nut butters—peanut butter adds richness, while cashew butter gives a milder flavor. For extra crunch, I sometimes stir in chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips before rolling. If I want more sweetness, I add a drizzle of maple syrup or a few dates to the mixture. For a fun twist, I roll the finished bites in shredded coconut or cocoa powder instead of dipping them in chocolate.

Storage/Reheating

I keep these bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They also freeze beautifully—I place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper, and store for up to 2 months. To enjoy, I let them thaw at room temperature for about 10 minutes. There’s no need to reheat since they’re meant to be served chilled or slightly cool.

FAQs

Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats?

Yes, I can use rolled oats, but the texture will be a bit chewier. Quick oats blend more easily into a uniform mixture.

Can I make these bites nut-free?

Absolutely. I replace the almonds with sunflower seeds and use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter.

What can I use instead of dark chocolate?

I can use semi-sweet, milk, or white chocolate, or even drizzle them with melted cocoa nibs for a less sweet option.

Can I make them without a food processor?

Yes, I mash the banana well with a fork, chop the almonds finely, and mix everything by hand until combined.

How do I make them sweeter?

I add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, or toss in a couple of pitted dates before blending.

Can I skip the chocolate dip?

Yes, they’re delicious plain or rolled in shredded coconut, chia seeds, or cocoa powder instead.

How long do they last at room temperature?

They stay fresh for about 1 day at room temperature, but I prefer keeping them refrigerated to maintain firmness.

Can I use steel-cut oats?

No, steel-cut oats are too coarse for this recipe and won’t blend properly.

How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands?

I lightly wet my hands or use a bit of oil when rolling the mixture into balls.

Are these suitable for kids?

Yes, they’re a great kid-friendly snack—naturally sweetened, bite-sized, and packed with wholesome ingredients.

Conclusion

I find these chocolate banana oat bites to be the perfect blend of healthy and satisfying. They’re easy to make, naturally sweet, and have just the right touch of chocolate to feel like a treat. Whether I enjoy them as a quick snack, post-workout boost, or dessert, they never last long in my fridge. Simple, wholesome, and delicious—these bites are always worth making again.