Save These Strawberry-Almond Butter Energy Cups are my go-to for satisfying snacks that feel like a treat but pack in nourishment. They are quick to make no baking required and hit the perfect balance between sweet creamy and nutty. Ideal as an afternoon boost or a small dessert they disappear fast whenever I set out a batch.
The first time I made these was for a friend’s hiking trip and we laughed at how quickly they were gone Families love how customizable and kid friendly these cups are
Ingredients
- Almond butter: Creamy almond butter creates the rich base Choose one with just almonds and salt for best flavor
- Strawberry jam: Adds fruity sweetness and color Use a high fruit content jam with minimal added sugar if possible
- Rolled oats: Old fashioned oats give structure and chew Seek out gluten free certified oats as needed and choose thick cut for the best bite
- Maple syrup: Binds the mixture and adds gentle sweetness Opt for pure maple syrup not pancake syrup for best results
- Coconut oil: Makes the cups firm up and adds subtle richness Unrefined coconut oil gives a slight coconut note while refined is more neutral
Instructions
- Make the Oat Base:
- Stir together almond butter oats maple syrup and melted coconut oil in a bowl until the mixture is evenly coated and forms a thick cohesive dough The oats should look glossy and stick together when pressed
- Press and Chill:
- Divide the oat mixture between silicone or paper lined mini muffin cups Press into each cup with a teaspoon to form a flat bottom and slightly up the sides Place the pan in the freezer for ten minutes to let the base firm up
- Fill with Strawberry Jam:
- Spoon a generous half teaspoon of strawberry jam into the center of each chilled base Spread gently without poking through the sides or bottom This creates the gooey fruity heart of every cup
- Top and Set:
- Top each cup with a little extra oat mixture pressed gently to mostly cover the jam but allow a little to peek through for color and ease of eating Freeze again for fifteen to twenty minutes until the cups are solid and easily pop out
- Store for Snacking:
- Once firm transfer energy cups to an airtight container Store in the fridge for a softer bite or freezer for a longer lasting grab and go treat
Save One of my favorite tricks is swirling the jam slightly so every bite is different once my niece called these “happy snacks” after a long park day and it stuck
Storage Tips
Keep energy cups in a sealed container in the fridge for up to one week For even longer storage pop them in the freezer and just set one out for a few minutes before eating The cool texture from the freezer is extra refreshing in warm months
Ingredient Substitutions
Switch up your nut or seed butter to suit allergies or taste preferences Cashew or sunflower seed butter works beautifully Try any berry jam for variation Raspberry and blueberry jams are both delicious with this mix
Serving Suggestions
Arrange energy cups on a platter as a light dessert for parties or brunch Stack them in a jar for lunches or wrap individually for a sweet hiking snack My family likes them as cool breakfast bites on hot mornings
Cultural and Historical Context
Energy bites and bars grew popular as portable snacks for outdoor adventurers These cups give a nostalgic nod to peanut butter and jelly sandwiches in a fun new form Almond butter and strawberries are a modern flavor pairing with roots in classic American kitchens
Seasonal Adaptations
Use homemade strawberry chia jam with summer berries for a fresher flavor Swap in stone fruit preserves like apricot for a fall twist Mix fresh diced strawberries into the jam layer for extra brightness
Success Stories
These have powered everything from soccer games to cross country road trips and toddler playdates Parents appreciate the no mess finger food aspect Friends say they taste even better than store bought snacks and take a fraction of the effort
Freezer Meal Conversion
Double or triple the recipe and freeze the finished cups in layers separated by parchment paper They thaw in minutes and make breakfast or snack duty completely effortless Keep a batch stashed for surprise visitors or anytime hunger
Save Once you try these, you’ll want to keep a stash in the fridge or freezer at all times. They make snacking joyful, wholesome, and effortless.
Recipe Help
- → Can I use other nut butters?
Yes, peanut butter or cashew butter can replace almond butter for a different flavor profile.
- → Do strawberries need to be fresh?
Fresh strawberries offer the best taste and texture, but frozen strawberries can work if thawed and drained.
- → Are energy cups suitable for freezing?
Absolutely, store energy cups in an airtight container in the freezer for longer shelf life.
- → Can I add chocolate to these cups?
Melted chocolate can be drizzled over the cups or used as a base layer for added richness.
- → How long do energy cups stay fresh?
Keep refrigerated and enjoy within 5 days for the best flavor and texture.