If you love zesty lemon and crave a snack that balances sweet with citrusy pop, you’re in for a treat! These Lemon Poppy Seed Energy Bites are sunshine in snack form—bright, chewy, and packed with nourishing ingredients that will *actually* keep you going. I whipped these up during a busy soccer practice week, and let’s just say—my kids AND the moms on the sideline were all reaching for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Years ago, when I was working as a personal chef, I made these as a post-yoga snack for a client—she swore they were better than lemon bars! Now they’re a staple in our house, tucked into lunch boxes and always stashed in the fridge for a quick grab.
- Bright, fresh lemon flavor with just the right amount of sweetness
- No baking required (yay for less mess!)
- Perfect for meal prep—make a batch and enjoy all week
- Kid-approved and adult-adored
- Gluten-free and naturally sweetened
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Pro Tips
- If your dates are a little dry, soak them in warm water for 5 minutes and drain before using.
- Almond flour helps bind these without making them too dense—use finely ground for best texture.
- No cashews? Try raw almonds or macadamias.
- You can roll the bites in extra poppy seeds or shredded coconut for a pretty finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a food processor, blend cashews until they resemble fine crumbs—don’t overprocess or they’ll turn into nut butter.
- Add dates, almond flour, lemon zest, lemon juice, poppy seeds, coconut oil, salt, and vanilla. Pulse until the mixture clumps together and is easily scoopable.
- Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to portion out the mixture, then roll into balls with your hands.
- Optional: Roll the bites in extra poppy seeds or shredded coconut.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Don’t skip the lemon zest—it’s what gives that punchy citrus flavor and makes these bites sing!
- If the mixture feels too dry, add 1–2 tsp of water or more lemon juice until it holds together.
- Want a more dessert-y vibe? Add a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Swap in orange zest for a different citrus spin.
- Add chia seeds instead of poppy seeds for a superfood boost.
- Serve with herbal tea for a light afternoon pick-me-up.
- Pack in lunchboxes or pair with yogurt for an energizing start to your day.
FAQs
Can I freeze these energy bites?
Absolutely! Freeze in a single layer first, then transfer to a container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
Do I need a food processor?
A food processor works best, but a high-powered blender can work too—just pulse gently to avoid turning the nuts completely into butter.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a food processor, pulse cashews until finely ground.
- Add all remaining ingredients. Process until mixture is sticky and forms a dough.
- Scoop and roll into small balls. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition: ~100 calories per bite
If you make these Lemon Poppy Seed Energy Bites, I’d love to hear how they turned out—drop a comment below or tag me on Instagram @kitchensaidmama. Let’s snack happy together!
