Dark Chocolate Peanut & cashew Rice Cake Energy Bites

A crunchy, satisfying snack to fuel your day with benefits in every bite.

This is one of those joyful, messy, energy-boosting snacks you’ll come back to again and again. These chocolate-drenched rice cake bites are packed with good fats, plant-based protein, and functional dark chocolate. Perfect for a midday pick-me-up, pre-workout fuel, or guilt-free evening treat.

You can shape them into bars, but I love making them into bite-sized nuggets: fun, portable, and perfectly portioned (though a little messier, in the best way).

🍴 Ingredients (Makes 6–8 Bars or 18+ bites)

• 80g peanut butter (I used Proper Nutty Smooth)

• 100g maple syrup

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 heaped tsp peanut protein powder

• 4–5 lightly salted rice cakes, crushed (amount may vary) - I used the Wholemeal rice cakes. 

• 25g cashew nuts, roughly chopped or crushed

• 80g 80Noir Ultra dark chocolate chopped (I used a blend of 87.5% & 100%)

• 1 tsp coconut oil

• Flaky sea salt to finish (optional)

🥄 Method

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth.

2. Stir in the crushed rice cakes and peanut protein powder until the mixture becomes sticky and cohesive.

3. Press the mixture into a lined loaf tin, pressing it down evenly. (I put gloves on to do this as its easier to press with your hands)

4. Melt the chopped dark chocolate and coconut oil together in a small pan or microwave-safe bowl.

5. Stir in the chopped cashews and pour the chocolate mixture over the rice cake base.

6. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.

7. Freeze for 1–2 hours until firm. Slice into bites or bars.

📦 Storage Tip:
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge (for up to 1 week) or freezer (up to 1 month). Best served cold.

🧠💪 Why It’s More Than Just a Snack

This isn’t your average treat. Every bite delivers real nutritional value:

✅ Dark Chocolate (87.5% & 100%)

• Rich in polyphenols & flavonoids for brain and heart health

• Helps regulate blood sugar and improve focus

• Naturally energising without the sugar crash

✅ Peanut Butter & Cashews

• High in healthy fats, plant protein, and magnesium

• Supports muscle recovery and sustained energy

✅ Peanut Protein Powder

• Boosts protein content without the need for whey or soy

• Helps maintain satiety and stabilises blood sugar

✅ Rice Cakes

• Light, crunchy, and a great carrier for nutrients

• Slight saltiness enhances the richness of dark chocolate

🌟 Balanced. Functional. Delicious.

This is a snack that feels indulgent but works hard for your mind, body, and energy. It’s just one way we love making functional dark chocolate part of everyday living.

📌 Tag @80noir if you make it, I’d love to see your creations!