Table of Contents
These bright Lemon Poppy Seed Energy Bites deliver sunshine in every bite! With refreshing citrus zing, satisfying crunch, and plant-powered protein, these no-bake spheres are perfect for on-the-go snacking.
A Little Story
After discovering how poppy seeds add delightful texture to lemon treats, I spent weeks perfecting this protein-packed version. Now these Lemon Poppy Seed Energy Bites fuel my morning hikes and afternoon slumps – they’re happiness you can hold in your hand!
Get Ready to Cook
Grab two bowls and let’s make energy magic happen! These Lemon Poppy Seed Energy Bites require zero baking and minimal cleanup.
What to Expect
- Time: 15 minutes active + 1 hour chilling
- Difficulty: Beginner-friendly
Before You Begin
Zest your lemon before juicing! Use organic lemons when possible since we’re using the peel. Measure all ingredients exactly for proper consistency in these Lemon Poppy Seed Energy Bites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| PlantFusion vanilla bean protein powder | 3 scoops (90g) |
| Old-fashioned rolled oats (gluten-free) | ½ cup (50g) |
| Poppy seeds | 1 tbsp (9g) |
| Truvia | ½ tbsp (7g) |
| Freshly grated lemon zest | 1 tsp |
| Freshly squeezed lemon juice | 6 tbsp (90mL) |
| Water | 6 tbsp (90mL) |
Step-by-Step Guide
- In a large bowl, whisk together protein powder, oats, poppy seeds, Truvia, and lemon zest
- Pour lemon juice and water into dry ingredients
- Stir until fully combined – dough will be thick but moist
- Roll mixture into 28 small balls (about 1 tsp each)
- Place Lemon Poppy Seed Energy Bites in airtight container
- Refrigerate 1 hour before enjoying
Pointers for Perfection & How to Store
Critical Tip: This recipe only works properly with PlantFusion protein powder. Other brands absorb liquid differently! Add more powder if dough feels wet, or extra water if too crumbly.
Storage: Keep Lemon Poppy Seed Energy Bites refrigerated up to 2 weeks. For variety, try our Gluten Free Protein Balls Recipe too!
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Lemon Poppy Seed Energy Bites
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 12 bites 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Lemon Poppy Seed Energy Bites are little balls of sunshine that taste just like a lemon muffin, but without the baking. Made with wholesome raw cashews and gluten-free oats, they are naturally sweetened and packed with zesty fresh lemon flavor. They make the perfect grab-and-go healthy snack or post-workout fuel.
Ingredients
1 cup raw cashews (unsalted)
1/2 cup gluten free rolled oats
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
1 large lemon, zested and juiced (approx. 1 tbsp zest and 1–2 tbsp juice)
2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional: 1/4 cup desiccated coconut (for rolling)
Instructions
1. Prep: Wash and dry the lemon. Zest the entire lemon and squeeze the juice.
2. Blend Dry Ingredients: Place the raw cashews and gluten free oats in a food processor. Pulse a few times until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs or a fine meal. Do not over-process into butter.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the lemon zest, 1 tablespoon of the lemon juice, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the food processor.
4. Process: Blend again until the mixture comes together into a sticky dough ball. If the mixture is too dry and crumbly, add another teaspoon of lemon juice or water. If it is too wet, add a tablespoon more oats.
5. Add Poppy Seeds: Add the poppy seeds and pulse briefly just to incorporate them evenly throughout the dough.
6. Shape: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time. Roll between your palms to form smooth round balls. (Yields approximately 12-14 bites).
7. Coat (Optional): If desired, roll the balls in desiccated coconut to coat the outside.
8. Chill: Place the energy bites on a plate or in a container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
Notes
Oats: Ensure you use certified gluten-free oats if you are serving this to someone with celiac disease.
Cashews: Raw cashews provide a neutral, creamy base. If you use roasted cashews, the flavor will be nuttier and less like a muffin.
Storage: Store these bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10
- Category: Snack
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 5
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 3
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 0
Your Burning Questions Answered!
1. Can I make these Lemon Poppy Seed Energy Bites vegan?
They’re already vegan! PlantFusion uses plant-based proteins.
2. How many Lemon Poppy Seed Energy Bites equal one serving?
Four bites provide 15g protein – perfect snack portions!
3. Can I freeze energy bites?
Yes! Freeze in single layers before transferring to bags for 3-month storage.
Dig In & Enjoy!
With their cheerful citrus flavor and energizing nutrition, these Lemon Poppy Seed Energy Bites will become your new fridge staple. For more delicious ideas, follow me on Pinterest.