If you loved Zagnut bars as a kid, these Peanut Butter & Coconut Crunchies will bring back those nostalgic flavors in a healthier way! Made with clean ingredients like rolled oats, coconut, peanut butter, and raw honey, these bite-sized energy snacks provide a balance of protein and complex carbs for sustained energy. They’re easy to make—just mix, roll, and refrigerate for a quick, delicious treat!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned gluten-free oats
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons natural extra-crunchy peanut butter
• 1 1/4 cups finely grated coconut (plus 1/4 cup for rolling)
• 1/4 cup raw honey
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Spread oats on a parchment-lined baking sheet and toast for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool.
3. In a mixing bowl, use your hands to combine all ingredients until well blended.
4. Shape the mixture into 20 1-inch balls. If needed, add a few drops of water to help them hold together.
5. Spread additional coconut on a plate. Roll each ball in the coconut until fully coated.
6. Place the coated balls in the fridge until set (about 1 hour).
7. Enjoy as a sweet, energy-boosting snack!

Nutrients

• Serving Size: 1 ball
• Calories: 163 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Sodium: 33mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• SmartPoints (Freestyle): 6

A Perfect Combination of Protein and Complex Carbs

One of the key benefits of these Peanut Butter & Coconut Crunchies is their ability to provide sustained energy. The combination of peanut butter and rolled oats delivers a healthy balance of protein and complex carbohydrates, which is essential for maintaining steady energy levels throughout the day. Protein is vital for muscle repair and growth, while complex carbohydrates provide lasting fuel, helping to stabilize blood sugar and prevent the energy crashes that can come from sugary snacks.

The peanut butter, a source of healthy fats and protein, helps to make these crunchies both filling and satisfying. The oats, on the other hand, provide fiber and B-vitamins, which support digestive health and provide additional sustained energy. Together, these ingredients make these crunchy treats not only delicious but also functional for maintaining energy levels, making them an excellent snack for those with an active lifestyle.

Coconut: Adding Sweetness and Nutrients

Coconut is another star ingredient in this recipe. Finely grated coconut adds a natural sweetness and texture to the crunchies, complementing the richness of the peanut butter. But the benefits of coconut go far beyond flavor and texture. Coconut is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of fat that is quickly used for energy and is known to support brain function and fat metabolism.

Coconut is also a great source of fiber, which aids digestion and supports gut health. Additionally, it contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect cells from oxidative damage. By incorporating coconut into these crunchies, you’re not only enhancing the flavor but also adding a range of health benefits to your snack. The added coconut coating on the outside of each ball gives them a delightful crunch, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Raw Honey: A Natural Sweetener with Health Benefits

Raw honey serves as the natural sweetener in these Peanut Butter & Coconut Crunchies. Unlike processed sugars, raw honey contains essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s known for its antimicrobial properties, which can help support immune health. Honey also provides a quick source of energy, making it a great option for athletes or anyone in need of a natural energy boost.

In addition to its sweet flavor, honey has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, especially in the throat. It’s a great alternative to refined sugar, as it provides sweetness without the negative side effects of added sugars, such as blood sugar spikes and crashes. By using raw honey, these crunchies maintain their clean-eating status while still satisfying your sweet tooth in a healthy, wholesome way.

Mini Chocolate Chips: A Sweet Touch (Optional)

While these Peanut Butter & Coconut Crunchies are already delicious on their own, adding mini chocolate chips provides an extra touch of sweetness and indulgence. The chocolate chips melt slightly when mixed into the peanut butter and coconut mixture, adding a rich, creamy layer to each bite. The semi-sweet chocolate balances perfectly with the natural sweetness of the honey and coconut, creating a satisfying flavor profile that’s both decadent and healthy.

If you prefer to keep the recipe on the cleaner side, you can easily omit the chocolate chips and enjoy the bars in their more wholesome form. However, for those who love the added touch of chocolate, choosing a high-quality, semi-sweet or dairy-free chocolate option allows you to enjoy that indulgent treat without compromising the overall health benefits.

A Simple and Quick Snack

One of the biggest advantages of making these Peanut Butter & Coconut Crunchies is how easy and quick they are to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, these snacks come together in no time. After toasting the oats, you mix all the ingredients together, roll the mixture into small balls, and then let them chill in the fridge for about an hour. No baking is required, and the entire process can be done in under 30 minutes (excluding the chilling time).

This simplicity makes these crunchies the perfect option for busy individuals who need a healthy snack on-the-go. They can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for longer storage. They’re also portable, making them an excellent choice for packing in lunches, taking to the office, or stashing in your gym bag for a post-workout boost.

A Snack for Every Occasion

These Peanut Butter & Coconut Crunchies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on a variety of occasions. Whether you need a quick snack during a busy workday, a protein-packed treat after a workout, or a wholesome dessert to satisfy your sweet cravings, these crunchies fit the bill. They’re a great choice for kids, as well, providing a healthier alternative to sugary granola bars or candy.

These treats are also perfect for outdoor activities or picnics. Their small, bite-sized nature makes them easy to serve and eat without any mess. They can be enjoyed at home or shared at gatherings with friends and family, offering a healthy, clean-eating snack that everyone can enjoy.

Customizing the Crunchies

While the recipe as written is already delicious, there’s always room for customization based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. If you prefer a different nut butter, such as almond butter or cashew butter, you can easily swap it out for the peanut butter in the recipe. These variations will alter the flavor slightly but still provide the same satisfying texture and health benefits.

You can also experiment with different add-ins, such as chia seeds, flaxseeds, or dried fruit like raisins or cranberries, to further boost the nutritional profile of these crunchies. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you could increase the amount of honey or add a natural sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar. The beauty of these crunchies is that they’re highly adaptable to different dietary preferences, allowing you to create your perfect version.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter & Coconut Crunchies are a delicious and nutritious snack that brings together the rich flavors of peanut butter, coconut, and oats in a simple, no-bake treat. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, these crunchies provide sustained energy and help keep you satisfied between meals. The addition of raw honey and optional chocolate chips gives them just the right balance of sweetness and indulgence, while the clean, whole ingredients ensure that they’re a healthy choice for any occasion.

With their easy preparation, portability, and versatility, these Peanut Butter & Coconut Crunchies are the perfect snack for anyone looking to satisfy their cravings without compromising their health goals. Whether you’re on-the-go, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a healthier treat for your family, these crunchies are sure to become a favorite. Try them today and enjoy a delicious, guilt-free snack that satisfies your sweet tooth while nourishing your body!