Easy No-Bake Peanut Butter Protein Energy Balls – Best Snack
These no-bake peanut butter protein energy balls are the perfect snack for a quick energy boost. Made with simple pantry ingredients like rolled oats, peanut butter, honey, and chocolate chips, they come together in under 15 minutes and are ideal for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (including 30 minutes chilling)
- Yield: 18-20 balls 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats (use certified gluten-free oats if needed)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (natural preferred, no added sugar or oil)
- 1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (dairy-free if needed)
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (or chia seeds)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup rolled oats, 1/4 cup ground flaxseed, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir together with a fork or spatula until evenly distributed.
- Add the wet ingredients: To the same bowl, add 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 1/3 cup honey, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Do not add chocolate chips yet.
- Mix everything together: Use a rubber spatula or wooden spoon to combine all ingredients. Start with a circular motion, then switch to a folding motion. The mixture will look crumbly at first; keep mixing for 1-2 minutes until it comes together.
- Let the mixture rest: Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes before rolling. This allows the oats to absorb moisture, making the balls hold together better. Use this time to line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Fold in the chocolate chips: After resting, add 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips. Gently fold them in until evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix to prevent melting.
- Roll into balls: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the mixture. Roll each portion between your palms to form smooth balls. If sticky, dampen hands slightly with water. You should get about 18-20 balls (about 1.5 tablespoons each).
- Chill for at least 30 minutes: Place balls on parchment-lined baking sheet or plate. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. For a quicker option, freeze for 15 minutes.
- Enjoy! Once chilled, they are ready to eat. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Notes
For best texture, use rolled oats instead of quick oats. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes before rolling to allow oats to absorb moisture. If mixture is too dry, add a teaspoon of honey or peanut butter. If too sticky, add a tablespoon of oats. Wet hands slightly to prevent sticking when rolling. Store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 9
- Sodium: 60
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 16
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 5
Keywords: no-bake energy balls, peanut butter protein balls, healthy snack, gluten-free snack, meal prep snack, easy energy balls