These No Bake Dark Chocolate Cherry Oat Bites are the perfect balance of chewy, chocolatey, and nourishing — the kind of wholesome treat you’ll feel good about keeping in your fridge all week long.
Each bite is packed with gluten-free oats, antioxidant-rich dark chocolate, chewy dried cherries, and a mix of crunchy seeds for that perfect texture and flavor combo.
Whether you need a quick snack, a pre-workout boost, or a balanced sweet bite during the busy holiday season, these easy oat bites come together in minutes — no oven required!
They’re refined sugar-free, naturally sweetened with honey, and offer about 2g of protein per bite, making them both satisfying and energizing.
Simple to make, endlessly snackable, and perfect for meal prep or gifting, these bites will quickly become your go-to recipe for a nourishing treat that tastes as good as it makes you feel.
Why you’ll love this recipe!
What ingredients do I need?
- Old-Fashioned Oats: The hearty, chewy base that holds everything together and adds fiber.
- Dried Cherries: Naturally tart and sweet, they add chewiness and a pop of color.
- Honey: Acts as both a natural sweetener and binder — no refined sugar needed.
- Peanut Butter: Adds richness, flavor, and healthy fats to keep you full.
- Coconut Oil: Helps the bites firm up when chilled and adds a subtle tropical note.
- Sunflower & Pumpkin Seeds: Provide crunch, protein, and nutrient-dense texture.
- Ground Almonds: Give structure and a nutty depth of flavor.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: The perfect indulgent touch — rich, antioxidant-packed, and delicious.
- Cinnamon & Salt: Enhance all the flavors and balance the sweetness.
Recipe Variations
- Use dried cranberries, apricots, or blueberries instead of the cherries for a fun twist.
- Try almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor.
- Melt a little extra dark chocolate and drizzle over the top before chilling.
- Boost the protein: Mix in 1–2 tablespoons of your favorite vanilla or chocolate protein powder.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before refrigerating for a balanced finish.
Pro Tips
- Warm the base mixture gently: When heating the honey, peanut butter, and coconut oil, keep the heat low to prevent scorching or separation.
- Mix while warm: Combine the warm liquid mixture with the dry ingredients right away so it coats everything evenly.
- Press firmly into the pan: Use the back of a spoon or a piece of parchment paper to compact the mixture well — this helps the bites hold together once chilled.
- Chill fully before cutting: Let the bars firm up for at least 1 hour in the fridge before slicing for clean edges.
- Add chocolate last: Stir in the chocolate chips once the mixture cools slightly to prevent melting.
Leftovers and Storage
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freeze: For longer storage, place in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
- Thawing: Let thaw in the fridge or at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before eating.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps its chewy texture and flavor perfectly, making it ideal for snack prep or lunchboxes.
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Let’s engage!
Make sure to tag @thehomechefmomma on Instagram or Facebook, and leave a review or comment if you make these. I always get so excited to see your creations, variations of the recipe, and feedback! Just remember to be kind in your comments, there is still a person behind this screen! 🙂
Dark Chocolate Cherry Oat Bites
Ingredients
- 3/4 c. Honey
- 1/4 c. Peanut butter creamy
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 c. Old fashioned oats
- 3/4 c. Dried cherries
- 1/3 c. Sunflower seeds
- 1/3 c. Pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 c. Almonds ground (or finely chopped)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch salt
- 3/4 c. Dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- In a large bowl, add oats, cherries, seeds, ground almonds, cinnamon and salt. Stir to combine and then set aside.
- Add honey, peanut butter, coconut oil, and vanilla extract to a small pot over med low heat. Stir and heat until combined well. Pour over oat mix. Stir and mix well.
- Fold in chocolate chips
- Add oat mix to a parchment lined 8×8” baking pan, spread evenly, and then press down firmly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until set.
- Divide into 36 squares and enjoy.
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Nutritional Content Disclaimer
I choose not to include nutritional information with my recipes, as these values can be calculated from the ingredients provided. With my background as a pediatric nurse practitioner and my own family experience with disordered eating, I understand how focusing on numbers can affect our relationship with food. My philosophy is that all foods have a place—sweet, savory, nourishing, or indulgent. I aim to share recipes that support a healthy, joyful approach to eating. My hope is that this space also encourages a balanced, healthy relationship with food for you and your family too.