With nutritious ingredients including oats, nut butter, and dried fruit for lactation support, these no-bake Lactation Bites are a perfect snack. Plus, they store well for weeks so you can prep them ahead!
To me, a perfect postpartum snack is one that is easy to prep ahead, can be eaten with one hand, provides balanced energy, and is super delicious.
These Lactation Bites are exactly that. They simply stir together without baking, they store well for weeks, and include a mix of protein, fat, fiber, and protein.
Why This Recipe Works
These no-bake energy bites are ideal for the postpartum months to help nourish new moms with balanced nutrition. They are delicious, easy to eat, and also offer lactation support, too, from the inclusion of rolled oats and the option to add Brewer’s Yeast.
You can enjoy these for breakfast, snack, or dessert after having a baby—or really anytime you need a quick bite to fuel yourself.
(You might also like my Lactation Cookies, Lactation Smoothie, and Postpartum Freezer Meals for this phase of life, too.)
Table of Contents
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Ingredients You Need
Below is a look at the ingredients you need to make this Lactation Bites recipe so you know what to have on hand.
- Creamy unsweetened almond butter: Store brands tend to be less expensive, so that is the type I usually reach for. One that is “no-stir” works best since the oil is well combined already. This nutrient-dense ingredient provides the base of the bites.
- Honey: The honey in this recipe helps the bites hold together. You can also swap in brown rice syrup for a less sweet taste.
- Vanilla extract: You can use pure or imitation vanilla extract here as both work similarly.
- Quick oats: This type of ground up rolled oats creates a texture in the balls more similar to cookie dough. If you are starting with rolled oats, you can grind them briefly in a food processor or blender.
- Dried cranberries and/or mini chocolate chips: You can add one of these or both of them to make the protein balls more flavorful.
- Unsweetened shredded coconut: There is the option to roll the protein balls in coconut to add flavor and texture.
- Brewer’s yeast: Some people like to add this ingredient to their lactation bites for more lactation support. It is optional though.
TIP: Many people believe foods like oats and Brewer’s yeast help support the production of milk, but that has not been widely scientifically proven. (See more from Johns Hopkins on this.) But this recipe is a nutrient- and calorie-dense snack that can help provide energy to support our bodies during a time when they really need it.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Below is a preview of how to make this Lactation Bites recipe so you know what to expect. Scroll down to the end of this post for the full recipe, including the amounts and timing.
Step 1. Add the liquid ingredients to a large bowl. They are easiest to stir if they are room temperature. Stir.
Step 2. Add the remaining ingredients to the bowl, including any optional ones.
Step 3. Stir the batter together well, taking time to incorporate everything together evenly.
Step 4. Use a mini ice cream scoop or measuring spoon to portion out balls. Roll in shredded coconut if desired.
Lactation Bites FAQ
You can use rolled oats, instant oats, or even oat flour. The difference is the type of oats you choose will impact the final texture—rolled oats will make Lactation Bites with a chunkier texture, instant oats less so, and oat flour will make them more smooth—like Edible Cookie Dough.
According to John’s Hopkins, there are many foods believed to help breastmilk supply but they are not scientifically proven to do so. Oats and Brewer’s yeast are on the list which is why they are included in this recipe. But you can also simply focus on ample hydration and nutrient-dense foods that include fiber, protein, and beneficial fats.
Sure, use sunflower seed butter if you prefer.
How to Store
To store, place the Lactation Bites in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a month. Or freeze for up to 6 months. Enjoy them cold or at room temperature.
Best Tips for Success
- Warm the almond butter and honey as needed so they are easy to stir into the other ingredients.
- Use peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter in place of the almond butter as desired.
- Replace 2 tablespoons of the oats with hemp seeds or protein powder for more protein.
Related Recipes
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Best Freezer Meals for New Moms & Dads
I’d love to hear your feedback on this recipe if you try it, so please comment below to share.
Lactation Bites (10 Minutes to Make)
Ingredients
- ½ cup creamy unsweetened almond butter (or peanut butter)
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons Brewer's yeast (optional)
- ¼ cup dried cranberries, raisins, or mini chocolate chips
- Shredded unsweetened coconut, optional
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a medium bowl.
- Stir thoroughly with a wooden spoon or stiff spatula.
- Use a tablespoon-size measuring spoon or mini ice cream scoop to portion and roll into balls.
- Optional: Roll in shredded unsweetened coconut for more flavor and texture.
- Serve or store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a month.
Equipment
Notes
- To store, place in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a month. Let sit at room temperature to soften slightly if needed for your toddler.
- Cut the dried cranberries in half if they are very large so they are easier for the kids to bite into and chew.
- Warm the almond butter and honey as needed so they are easy to stir into the other ingredients.
- Replace 2 tablespoons of the oats with hemp seeds or protein powder for more protein.
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