Easy No-Bake Protein Energy Balls with Oats and Dark Chocolate
Quick and healthy no-bake protein energy balls made with oats, peanut butter, honey, and dark chocolate chunks. Perfect for a nutritious snack on the go.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 15 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (90g) old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup (125g) natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup (85g) honey
- 1/2 cup (90g) dark chocolate chunks (at least 70% cocoa)
- 2 tablespoons (14g) ground flaxseed (optional but recommended)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- If desired, pulse 1 cup (90g) of rolled oats in a food processor or blender for about 5 seconds to slightly break them down while retaining texture.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup (125g) natural peanut butter, 1/4 cup (85g) honey, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well blended.
- Add the pulsed oats (or whole oats if not pulsed), 2 tablespoons (14g) ground flaxseed, and a pinch of salt to the wet mixture. Stir well until evenly combined.
- Gently fold in 1/2 cup (90g) dark chocolate chunks, being careful not to overmix to avoid melting the chocolate.
- Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons (20g) of the mixture and roll it between your hands to form a ball. Place on a tray or plate lined with parchment paper. Repeat until all mixture is used.
- Chill the tray in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up the energy balls before serving.
Notes
If mixture is too sticky, add more oats or flaxseed. If too dry, add a splash of milk or extra peanut butter. Chill for at least 30 minutes to help balls hold shape. For nut allergies, substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter and add seeds for crunch. Rolling balls in shredded coconut or cocoa powder can prevent sticking and add flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 energy ball (about
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 3
Keywords: no-bake, protein balls, energy balls, oats, dark chocolate, healthy snack, quick snack, peanut butter, gluten-free, vegan option