The Ultimate Guide to Delicious, Easy No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites

Welcome to the ultimate solution for quick, healthy snacking! If you are constantly on the lookout for a convenient, protein-packed treat that requires zero oven time and only 15 minutes of active preparation, then look no further. These No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites are the superheroes of the snack world perfectly balancing creamy, sweet, and wholesome textures in one satisfying bite. Whether you need a grab-and-go breakfast, a pre-workout fuel-up, or a simple, afternoon pick-me-up, these energy bites deliver a serious punch of nutrition.

We understand that modern life is hectic. That’s why recipes like these which use simple pantry staples and take advantage of the refrigerator’s setting power become invaluable tools in maintaining a healthy diet without sacrificing taste or time. This recipe is wildly versatile, completely customizable, and utterly fail-proof. Forget complicated baking schedules; we are embracing the simplicity of stirring, chilling, and rolling. Get ready to transform everyday ingredients like rolled oats and peanut butter into delicious, high-energy fuel for your entire family. These specific No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites will quickly become a fixture in your weekly meal prep routine, ensuring you always have a healthy option within arm’s reach.

Why You’ll Love These No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites

The appeal of these homemade energy bites extends far beyond their simple ingredient list. They represent the perfect synthesis of convenience, flavor, and dietary balance. For busy individuals, the primary attraction is the phrase “no-bake.” This eliminates preheating, precise timing, and the risk of overcooking, making them incredibly beginner-friendly. In fact, active preparation time clocks in at under 15 minutes, making this recipe faster than a trip to the local coffee shop for a packaged snack.

One of the deep satisfactions of making No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites is their incredible ability to curb cravings healthily. Unlike store-bought granola bars often loaded with high-fructose corn syrup and unnecessary fillers, these bites are crafted from whole, recognizable ingredients. The combination of slow-releasing complex carbohydrates from the oats and satiating healthy fats and protein from the peanut butter ensures that your energy levels remain stable, preventing the dreaded mid-afternoon sugar crash. This makes them an ideal choice for sustained energy, whether you are powering through a demanding workday or preparing for a long run.

Furthermore, these bites are a culinary joy to customize. The base recipe provides a fantastic neutral canvas that welcomes a wide array of additions. Are you a fan of texture? Swap the creamy peanut butter for crunchy. Looking for an extra protein boost? A tablespoon of your favorite protein powder blends seamlessly into the mix. Do you prefer a deeper flavor profile? A sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder can transform these simple snacks into gourmet treats. This inherent adaptability means the recipe never gets boring, allowing you to tailor batches to seasonal flavors or individual dietary needs.

This recipe also shines brilliantly for families with children. The process of rolling the bites is a wonderful, hands-on activity for kids, encouraging them to engage with healthy food preparation. Plus, since they taste like a treat thanks to the peanut butter and chocolate chips children are often enthusiastic consumers of these wholesome snacks, unaware they are fueling their bodies with fiber and nutrients rather than empty calories. Keeping a container of these No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites in the fridge means parents have a guilt-free option ready immediately when hunger strikes.

The final, perhaps most compelling reason to love this recipe is the incredible yield and storage life. A single batch produces approximately 18–20 bites, offering ample supply for weekly meal prep. Stored correctly in an airtight container, they keep perfectly in the refrigerator for up to a week, or they can be frozen for several months, providing an emergency stash of healthy snacks whenever needed. This bulk preparation efficiency saves time and money, reducing reliance on expensive, less-nutritious alternatives. They truly represent maximum payoff for minimal effort.

Why You Should Try This Recipe for Easy Energy Bites

In a saturated market of quick snack solutions, these No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites stand out not just for their ease but for their powerful nutritional profile and universal appeal. If you’ve struggled with finding a satisfying snack that supports your fitness goals, manages hunger effectively, and doesn’t require culinary acrobatics, this recipe is your answer. It is a fantastic introduction to the concept of high-fiber, high-protein snacking.

For those focused on fitness and recovery, these bites are strategically built. The rolled oats provide complex carbohydrates, which are vital for sustained energy during workouts and replenishing glycogen stores afterward. The peanut butter, rich in monounsaturated fats and plant-based protein, contributes to muscle repair and long-term satiety. By including ingredients like ground flaxseed or chia seeds, we exponentially boost the fiber and Omega-3 fatty acid content, supporting heart health and digestive regularity benefits often missing from common convenience foods.

Consider the cost and accessibility factor. This recipe relies on staples commonly found in any pantry: oats, peanut butter, and a natural sweetener. Compared to specialist health food products, the ingredients for these No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites are inexpensive and readily available at any grocery store. Furthermore, controlling the quality of ingredients is a significant advantage. You choose the peanut butter (preferably natural, low-sugar), you select the quality of the maple syrup or honey, and you decide whether to include organic oats. This transparency is crucial for anyone managing specific dietary restrictions or simply aiming for cleaner eating.

This recipe is also a brilliant strategy for minimizing food waste. Rolled oats are incredibly shelf-stable, and peanut butter often lingers in the pantry. This quick assembly format allows you to utilize those basic, long-lasting ingredients before they expire. They are far more forgiving than baking recipes; if you slightly mismeasure the liquid, you simply adjust the dry ingredients (or vice versa) until the perfect dough forms, making them stress-free for novice cooks.

Finally, these energy bites are remarkably portable. Unlike messy yogurt, sticky fruit, or easily crushed chips, these compact, firm spheres travel exceptionally well. They are ideal for lunchboxes, road trips, camping, or simply keeping in your desk drawer for when those 3 PM hunger pangs hit. Their contained nature means zero mess, zero crumbs, and zero fuss. The inherent structure of the recipe supports a consistently healthy lifestyle, ensuring that you are never caught unprepared without a nutritious option. When paired with a quick Spanish meal like a perfect Tortilla de Patatas for dinner, these bites offer a high-quality, balanced dessert or snack solution.

Ingredients and Utensils: Essential for Your No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites

Achieving perfection with these energy bites starts with understanding the role of each ingredient and utilizing the right tools. While the process is simple, quality ingredients make a noticeable difference in both flavor and texture. We aim for a mixture that is sticky enough to hold its shape but not so wet that it becomes mushy.

Detailed Ingredient Breakdown

Here is a detailed look at the ingredients needed to create approximately 18–20 satisfying No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites:

• 2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned oats recommended): This is the structure and the bulk of your energy bite. Recommendation: Use old-fashioned (rolled) oats, not quick-cooking (instant) oats. Quick oats absorb liquid too rapidly and often result in a mushy final texture. Rolled oats maintain their integrity and provide superior chewiness.
• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy): The binding agent. Peanut butter provides essential fats, protein, and flavor. Crucial Tip: Ensure the peanut butter is at room temperature. Cold, stiff peanut butter makes mixing nearly impossible. If using natural peanut butter, stir it thoroughly before measuring to ensure the oils are incorporated.
• ½ cup ground flaxseed or chia seeds (optional, for added nutrition): These are nutrient powerhouses, adding fiber and Omega-3s. Note: Ground flaxseed absorbs significantly more moisture than whole chia seeds, but both work well. Using them ground (if flax) ensures maximum nutritional absorption.
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips or cocoa nibs: Provides sweetness, texture contrast, and that classic peanut butter pairing. Alternative: Dark chocolate chips are excellent for minimizing sugar content while maximizing flavor.
• ⅓ cup pure maple syrup or honey: The primary sweetener and secondary binding agent. Both maple syrup and honey work beautifully, offering natural sweetness. Adjustment Note: Maple syrup tends to be slightly runnier than honey. If your mixture feels too dry, you can slightly increase the liquid sweetener, though be cautious, as too much will make the mixture overly sticky and hard to roll.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile, adding warmth and depth to the peanut butter and chocolate.
• A pinch of salt: Essential for balancing the sweetness and intensifying the peanut flavor. Omit if your peanut butter is already heavily salted.

Essential Tools for Perfect Rolling

While this is a simple, no-fuss recipe, having the right equipment ensures efficiency and consistent results when making your No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites.

1. Large, Sturdy Mixing Bowl: You will be applying significant pressure while mixing the thick dough, especially when integrating the oats and peanut butter. A bowl that is wide and deep ensures minimal spillage and allows for vigorous mixing.
2. Strong Wooden Spoon, Silicone Spatula, or Dough Scraper: Forget the whisk! This dough is too thick for delicate tools. A strong wooden spoon or a high-quality, stiff rubber spatula is ideal for folding and pressing the ingredients. Many cooks find that using clean hands toward the end of the mixing process is the most effective way to achieve a uniform, cohesive dough.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key, particularly with the sticky ingredients like peanut butter and liquid sweetener.
4. Small Cookie Scoop (Recommended): While not strictly necessary, a small cookie scoop (1 to 1.5 tablespoons capacity) ensures that all your energy bites are uniform in size. This consistency aids in portion control and presentation.
5. Parchment Paper or Wax Paper: Absolutely essential for lining your rolling surface (a baking sheet or plate). The bites are slightly sticky when first rolled, and parchment prevents them from adhering to the surface during the final setting period.
6. Airtight Storage Container: Necessary for maintaining freshness and texture during refrigeration.

By preparing these simple ingredients and having your utensils ready, you set the stage for a smooth, swift preparation process. Remember, the quality of your oats and the temperature of your peanut butter are the biggest predictors of successful, easy-to-roll No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites.

Detailed Instructions for Creating Your Perfect Energy Bites

The beauty of the No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites recipe lies in its simplicity. There are only a few key stages: mixing, testing, chilling, and rolling. Following these steps precisely ensures you achieve the ideal texture firm enough to hold its shape, but soft enough to chew easily.

1. Prepare the Mixing Bowl and Combine Dry Ingredients

Prep time: 15 minutes | Chill time: 30 minutes | Yields: Approximately 18–20 bites

Use a large, sturdy mixing bowl. This is non-negotiable for easy incorporation. Start by adding all the dry ingredients. Measure and combine the 2 cups of rolled oats, the ½ cup of ground flaxseed or chia seeds (if using), the ½ cup of mini chocolate chips, and the pinch of salt. Use a spoon to gently stir these dry components together. It is important to evenly distribute the salt and seeds now, as they will be harder to blend once the sticky wet ingredients are introduced.

2. Add Wet Ingredients

Once the dry ingredients are uniform, pour in the binding agents. Add the 1 cup of room-temperature peanut butter, the ⅓ cup of pure maple syrup or honey, and the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract directly over the center of the dry mixture. The contrast between the dry oats and the sticky wet elements will be stark at this point.

3. Mix Thoroughly: Achieving the Cohesive Dough

This step requires patience and muscle. Using your sturdy spoon or spatula, start folding the mixture. Initially, it will feel dry, and the oats will struggle to adhere. You must continue to press, fold, and scrape the sides of the bowl. Key Tip: Focus on incorporating the peanut butter into the oats completely. The moisture from the peanut butter and sweetener needs time and friction to be absorbed by the oats. Continue mixing until a cohesive, uniform “dough” forms. When you press the mixture firmly against the side of the bowl, it should stick together and not crumble apart. This may take 3 to 5 minutes of consistent effort.

4. Test the Consistency

The true success of your No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites rests on this consistency test. Take a small spoonful of the mixture and squeeze it tightly between your thumb and forefinger. If it holds its shape firmly and cleanly releases from your hand, it is ready for chilling. If the mixture feels too crumbly (often due to colder peanut butter or overly dry oats), add liquid slowly. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water, almond milk, or extra maple syrup/honey, mixing completely after each addition, until the desired stickiness is achieved. If, conversely, the mixture is too wet and sticky, add 1 tablespoon of extra oats or ground flaxseed to absorb the excess moisture.

5. Chill the Mixture (30 Minutes)

While optional, chilling is highly recommended for professional-looking bites and easier rolling. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to an airtight container. Place the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. The Chill Factor: This time allows the fats to solidify slightly and the oats to fully hydrate, making the dough much firmer, less sticky, and significantly easier to roll into neat, uniform balls.

6. Roll the Bites and Final Setting

Line a baking sheet or plate with parchment paper. Remove the chilled mixture from the refrigerator. Using a standard teaspoon or a small cookie scoop (approximately 1 to 1.5 tablespoons per bite), scoop out a portion. Roll the portion gently between the palms of your hands until a smooth, round ball is formed. If your hands get too sticky, wash and dry them halfway through the process.

Place the finished No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites onto the prepared parchment-lined sheet. Repeat until all the mixture is used. Finally, place the sheet back into the refrigerator for an additional 10 minutes. This ensures the bites fully set their shape and are ready for long-term storage.

7. Place and Store

Transfer the fully set No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites to an airtight container. They should be stored in the refrigerator for optimum freshness. They will last beautifully for up to 1 week. For longer storage, flash-freeze them on the baking sheet until firm (about 1 hour), then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months and thawed overnight in the fridge or eaten straight from the freezer for a harder, chewier treat. The ease of preparation, paired with the lengthy shelf life, makes these bites an excellent alternative to complicated dishes like a multi-layered Zucchini and Tuna Lasagna, when you need a fast fix.

Tips, Variations, and Troubleshooting for No-Bake Bites

While the base recipe for No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites is incredibly forgiving, mastering a few key adjustments and knowing how to troubleshoot common issues will elevate your results and allow for endless customization.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

The beauty of the “no-bake” format is its inherent flexibility, making it easy to cater to specific dietary needs:

• Nut-Free Energy Bites: If peanut butter is off-limits, substitute with sunflower seed butter (SunButter) or almond butter. Note that sunflower seed butter can sometimes react with baking soda/powder and turn a harmless green color, but since this recipe has no leavening agents, it usually retains its natural color.
• Gluten-Free: Rolled oats are naturally gluten-free, but contamination can occur during processing. Always use certified gluten-free rolled oats to ensure the final product is safe for those with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Energy Bites: The base recipe is already vegan, assuming you use maple syrup. If you use honey, simply swap it for an equal amount of maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown rice syrup.
• Sugar-Free/Low Carb: Reducing carbohydrates requires substitution of both the sweetener and the oats.
  • Replace maple syrup/honey with a liquid sugar-free sweetener (e.g., allulose syrup or stevia-based syrup).
  • Replace up to half of the rolled oats with shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or protein powder to reduce the carb load, though this significantly changes the final texture.

Flavor Boosters and Add-Ins

Once you master the base No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites, get creative with additions:

• Spices: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice for warmth, especially in the autumn months.
• Texture: Incorporate finely shredded coconut (up to ¼ cup), chopped dried cranberries, raisins, or finely chopped pecans/walnuts for enhanced texture and flavor complexity.
• Protein/Energy: Mix in 1 scoop of unflavored or vanilla-flavored protein powder. If adding protein powder, you may need 1–2 tablespoons of extra liquid (water or milk) to rebalance the consistency, as protein powder is very absorbent.
• Healthy Fats: Drizzle melted coconut oil (1–2 tablespoons) into the mix for an extra boost of healthy saturated fat and to help the balls firm up even more when chilled.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

The most common issues encountered when making these No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites revolve around consistency. Here’s how to fix them:

1. The Mixture is Too Dry and Crumbly:

This usually happens because the peanut butter was too cold, or you used slightly more oats than needed. Solution: Add liquid slowly. Incorporate 1 tablespoon of water, milk (dairy or non-dairy), or a little extra sweetener. Mix thoroughly and re-test. If the issue persists, the fats might simply need warming let the mixture sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to allow the peanut butter to soften.

2. The Mixture is Too Sticky/Gooey:

This is often caused by using too much liquid sweetener or using overly oily, natural peanut butter that hasn’t been properly stirred. Solution: Add dry ingredients. Incorporate 1–2 tablespoons of extra rolled oats, ground flaxseed, or even a small amount of powdered sugar (if sweetness isn’t a concern) until the mixture firms up. If all else fails, a mandatory 60-minute chill time will help immensely.

3. The Bites Aren’t Holding Their Shape After Rolling:

This indicates insufficient chilling time or a poor ratio. Ensure you adhere to the 30-minute chilling period before rolling. Once rolled, they must be set for another 10 minutes in the refrigerator before being stored. If they are still too soft, they need more dry bulk (oats or seeds). Keep them strictly refrigerated, as they soften quickly at room temperature, especially in warm weather.

These customizable, highly forgiving No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites offer a robust base that you can adapt season after season. They are truly one of the simplest and most satisfying healthy treats you can create.

Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of Energy Bites

One of the primary reasons these No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites have gained massive popularity is their alignment with modern dietary needs, providing a balanced profile of macronutrients. While precise nutritional values vary based on the specific type of peanut butter, sweetener (honey vs. maple syrup), and optional add-ins (flax/chia), a typical bite (using standard measurements and flaxseed) contains approximately 120–150 calories.

Typical Macronutrient Breakdown (Per Bite, approx. 1.5 oz)

• Calories: 135 kcal
• Protein: 5–7 grams
• Total Fat: 7–9 grams (primarily healthy unsaturated fats)
• Carbohydrates: 12–15 grams (complex carbs and fiber)
• Fiber: 2–3 grams

The nutritional composition is not accidental; it is designed to maximize satiety and sustained energy release. The combination of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates prevents sharp blood sugar spikes, making these a truly functional food.

Understanding the Power of Oats

Rolled oats are the foundational ingredient and one of the most powerful aspects of this snack. Oats are whole grains rich in a specific type of soluble fiber called beta-glucan. Beta-glucan is renowned for its heart health benefits, as it helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Furthermore, the high fiber content aids digestion and contributes significantly to the feeling of fullness, preventing overeating later in the day.

Benefits of Peanut Butter and Healthy Fats

Peanut butter provides an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair, making these bites ideal post-workout fuel. The fats found in peanut butter predominantly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are considered heart-healthy. These fats help absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and contribute to brain health. When choosing peanut butter, opt for natural versions that list peanuts and salt as the only ingredients to avoid unnecessary added sugars and hydrogenated oils.

The Boost from Flax and Chia Seeds

Including ground flaxseed or chia seeds is a simple way to elevate the nutritional density of your No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites. These seeds are among the best plant-based sources of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are critical for reducing inflammation and supporting cognitive function. Chia seeds are also remarkable for their ability to absorb liquid, adding fiber and contributing to the binding structure of the energy bite mixture.

In essence, you are not just making a tasty snack; you are engineering a mini-meal that supports energy levels, digestive health, and cardiovascular wellness. This deliberate combination of ingredients offers sustained fuel superior to most processed bars or candies.

FAQs About No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites

Below are some frequently asked questions regarding the preparation, storage, and customization of these popular healthy snacks.

Conclusion: Your New Go-To Snack Solution

The era of complicated, time-consuming healthy snacks is officially over. These No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites represent the perfect fusion of speed, nutrition, and delicious flavor. In just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a batch of approximately 20 protein-packed, fiber-rich bites that will fuel your week and satisfy every sweet craving without guilt. We’ve covered everything from selecting the right oats to mastering the chilling technique, ensuring that even a novice cook can achieve consistently firm, perfectly chewy results.

The true genius of this recipe lies not just in the ingredients, but in the power of preparation. By dedicating a small amount of time today, you are investing in a week of healthy eating, avoiding those moments of nutritional panic when hunger strikes. They are the ideal solution for everyone: parents packing lunch boxes, fitness enthusiasts seeking pre or post-workout fuel, or professionals needing a discreet desk snack. Furthermore, their inherent flexibility allows you to constantly adjust the recipe, keeping your rotation fresh whether you incorporate cocoa powder, switch to a different nut butter, or add exotic spices.

We encourage you to try this recipe today and see just how easily these No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites integrate into your routine. Forget the complexity of a dish like a classic Spanish Creamy Rice Pudding; this recipe simplifies healthy eating dramatically. Once you experience the convenience and fantastic taste, you’ll never look back. Did you experiment with a different variation? Let us know in the comments below! We love hearing about your creative culinary successes.

Don’t forget to save this recipe for later! You can find more easy, delicious meal prep ideas and Spanish cuisine inspiration on my Pinterest board. Click here to follow my Pinterest for more great recipes! Happy rolling!

No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites

A quick, easy, and nutritious no-bake snack perfect for meal prepping. These bites combine the satisfying flavors of peanut butter, oats, and chocolate for a protein-packed energy boost.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings (approx. 5 bites each)

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Health Food

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned oats recommended)
• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, ensure it is room temperature for easy mixing)
• 1/2 cup ground flaxseed or chia seeds (optional, for added fiber and omega-3s)
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips or cocoa nibs
• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup or honey (use maple syrup for vegan option)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt (if using unsalted peanut butter)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment Paper
• Small Cookie Scoop (Optional)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large, sturdy mixing bowl, measure and combine the rolled oats, ground flaxseed or chia seeds, mini chocolate chips, and the pinch of salt. Stir these dry ingredients thoroughly until they are evenly distributed.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the measured peanut butter, maple syrup or honey, and the vanilla extract directly over the dry mixture in the bowl.
3. Mix Thoroughly: Using a strong spatula or clean hands, mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Initially, the mixture may seem crumbly, but continue pressing and folding until a cohesive, uniform dough forms that sticks together when compressed. If the mixture is too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of water or extra syrup.
4. Chill the Mixture: Cover the mixing bowl tightly and place the mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Chilling makes the mixture firmer and significantly easier to roll into neat balls.
5. Roll the Bites: Line a baking sheet or plate with parchment paper. Remove the chilled mixture from the refrigerator. Scoop approximately 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture (using a teaspoon or small cookie scoop) and roll the portion between your palms until a smooth, round ball is formed.
6. Set and Store: Place the finished energy bites onto the prepared parchment-lined sheet. Once all bites are rolled, place the sheet back into the refrigerator for an additional 10 minutes to allow the bites to fully set their shape.
7. Transfer the finished No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Notes

Variations: For a richer flavor, swap 1/4 cup of oats for protein powder or add 1 tablespoon of vanilla or chocolate protein powder. You can also coat the finished bites in shredded coconut or finely chopped nuts before chilling. Ensure the peanut butter is natural and has no added sugar if you are watching those intakes. Always store these in the fridge or freezer, as they will soften significantly at room temperature.