What if your snack could channel the life-boosting, health-hacking habits of people in Blue Zones, the regions in the world where folks live the longest and healthiest lives?
These Blue Zone inspired Cranberry Nut Energy Bites do just that! They’re packed with nutrient-rich, wholesome ingredients inspired by the diets of Blue Zone residents, from almonds to antioxidant-loaded cranberries.
Best part? No baking required, so they’re a breeze to make!
What Exactly Are Blue Zones?
Blue Zones are unique areas like Sardinia, Italy, and Okinawa, Japan, where people often live past 100 (centenarians) with incredible health. They focus on fresh, plant-based foods, stay active every day, and keep stress low. These easy energy bites capture that spirit by packing in the same healthy, energy-boosting ingredients. Centenarians eat about a handful of nuts a day and their preferred snack provides healthy fats necessary for brain function.
You’ll Need:
- Rolled oats – fiber-filled goodness that keeps you satisfied
- Dates – packed with fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins and minerals to boost energy
- Almond butter – creamy, healthy fat source for long-lasting energy
- Honey – natural sweetness for a boost without refined sugar
- Pistachios – rich in protein, fiber, and antioxidants to support heart health and blood sugar balance
- Dried cranberries – tart and full of antioxidants
- Almonds – rich in riboflavin and L-carnitine, nutrients associated with cognitive function and brain health
- Chia seeds – omega-3s for brain and heart health
- Vanilla extract – just a hint for that sweet flavor
- Chocolate – for a sweet treat that pairs well with all the nuts and cranberries
Why You’ll Love These Energy Bites
Not only do these bites taste amazing, but they’re also packed with nutrients to keep you energized without the sugar crash. They’re portable, kid-approved, and way healthier than your average store-bought snack. Perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up, a quick pre-workout fuel, or even a dessert that’s guilt-free.
Ready to fuel up like a Blue Zone pro? Make a batch of these bites and snack your way to amazing health!
Gina
Ingredients
9 Medjool dates, pitted and cut in quarters
⅓ cup honey
1 Tbsp almond butter
1 Tbsp chia seeds
1¼ cup whole grain oats
¼ cup shelled pistachios
⅓ cup sliced almonds
¾ cup dried cranberries
1 tsp vanilla extract
⅓ cup white chocolate chips
Instructions
- In a food processor, add dates, honey, almond butter, chia seeds, oats, pistachios, almonds, cranberries, and vanilla. Pulse until roughly chopped, but still chunky.
- Place oat mixture into a medium mixing bowl. Add white chocolate chips and stir together. Place in refrigerator and chill for about 20 minutes.
- Once chilled, shape into 1-inch balls. Add a touch more almond butter if needed to help shape and hold, if necessary.
- Enjoy!
Notes
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week