Sourdough Discard Energy Bites – A No-Bake, Protein-Packed Snack!

If you’ve been baking sourdough, you know the struggle—what to do with all that discard? Well, I’ve got the perfect solution for you: Sourdough Discard Energy Bites! These little bites are no-bake, packed with protein and fiber, and perfect for snacking on the go.

I love a good kitchen hack, and turning sourdough discard into something delicious (and waste-free!) feels like a win every time. These energy bites are chewy, slightly tangy from the discard, naturally sweetened, and loaded with texture from oats, nut butter, and mix-ins of your choice. Plus, they come together in minutes—no baking required!

So, let’s put that sourdough discard to good use and whip up a batch of these tasty, nutritious snacks.

Why You’ll Love These Sourdough Discard Energy Bites

Zero waste! No more throwing out sourdough discard.
Easy and quick. Just mix, roll, and chill—done in under 15 minutes.
No-bake. Perfect for summer or when you just don’t feel like turning on the oven.
Nutritious. Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats to keep you fueled.
Customizable. Switch up the flavors with different nut butters, sweeteners, and mix-ins.
Meal prep friendly. Make a batch and store them for a grab-and-go snack all week.

What Do Sourdough Discard Energy Bites Taste Like?

Imagine a chewy, slightly tangy oatmeal cookie, but healthier and naturally sweetened. The sourdough discard adds a subtle tang that pairs beautifully with the nut butter and honey (or maple syrup). The oats add heartiness, while chocolate chips or dried fruit give little pops of sweetness. They’re soft, chewy, slightly nutty, and absolutely delicious!

Ingredients You’ll Need

½ cup sourdough discard (unfed) – Adds a mild tang and moisture.
1 cup rolled oats – The base of the bites; use old-fashioned oats for the best texture.
½ cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew butter) – Binds everything together and adds creaminess.
¼ cup honey or maple syrup – A natural sweetener that balances the tang of the discard.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional) – Adds warmth and depth.
Pinch of salt – Brings out the flavors.
¼ cup chocolate chips or dried fruit – For extra sweetness and texture (optional but recommended).
2 tablespoons flaxseed meal or chia seeds (optional) – Boosts fiber and omega-3s.

Tools You’ll Need

A mixing bowl
A spoon or spatula for mixing
A cookie scoop or your hands for rolling
A baking sheet or plate for chilling

Ingredient Substitutions and Add-Ins

Make these energy bites your own with some easy swaps and add-ins!

Nut-free? Use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of nut butter.
Gluten-free? Make sure your oats are certified gluten-free.
Want extra protein? Add a scoop of protein powder.
No honey or maple syrup? Try date syrup or mashed bananas.
More crunch? Toss in some chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or puffed quinoa.
Love chocolate? Swap the chocolate chips for cacao nibs or drizzle with melted dark chocolate.

How to Make Sourdough Discard Energy Bites

1. Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, stir together the sourdough discard, oats, nut butter, sweetener, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until everything is well combined. If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more nut butter or honey.

2. Add Mix-Ins

Fold in the chocolate chips, dried fruit, or any extras you like. This is where you can get creative!

3. Roll Into Balls

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. If it’s too sticky, chill the mixture in the fridge for 10 minutes before rolling.

4. Chill and Enjoy

Place the rolled bites on a plate or baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Then, enjoy!

What to Serve with Sourdough Discard Energy Bites

These little bites are perfect on their own, but if you’re feeling extra fancy, here are some ideas:

With coffee or tea for a quick, energizing breakfast.
Crumbled over yogurt for a crunchy topping.
With a smoothie for a balanced post-workout snack.
As a lunchbox treat for kids or yourself.

Tips for Perfect Energy Bites

If the mixture is too dry: Add a little more nut butter or honey.
If the mixture is too sticky: Chill for 10 minutes before rolling.
For extra firm bites: Store them in the fridge or freezer.
To make bars instead of bites: Press the mixture into a parchment-lined pan, chill, and cut into squares.

How to Store Sourdough Discard Energy Bites

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in a sealed bag or container. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake these instead of eating them raw?

These are meant to be no-bake, but if you want a baked version, try baking them at 325°F (160°C) for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.

Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture will be softer. If using quick oats, you may need to adjust the amount of nut butter or sweetener.

Can I make these without sweetener?

You can reduce or skip the sweetener, but the bites may not hold together as well. Try adding mashed banana or applesauce for natural sweetness and moisture.

Conclusion

Sourdough discard doesn’t have to go to waste—these energy bites are the perfect way to use it up while making a delicious, healthy snack! They’re easy, customizable, and packed with nutrients to keep you fueled throughout the day.

If you love finding new ways to use your sourdough discard, check out these other recipes:

I’d love to hear how you customize your Sourdough Discard Energy Bites! Share your variations in the comments and don’t forget to pin this recipe on Pinterest or tag me on social media with your creations. Happy snacking!