Peanut Butter Energy Balls
Peanut Butter Energy Balls are quick, protein-packed, and wholesome bite-sized snacks that combine creamy peanut butter, rolled oats, natural sweeteners, and optional superfood mix-ins. Perfect for an on-the-go boost or a healthy snack, these no-bake energy balls are easy to prepare in under 10 minutes and customizable to suit your taste and dietary needs.
- Author: Nina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 20-24 balls 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-Bake / Mixing and Chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup smooth or chunky peanut butter
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2–3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Mix-ins
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseeds
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- Chopped nuts or seeds (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon cacao nibs, hemp seeds, or spirulina powder (optional superfood boost)
- Pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper (optional spicy kick)
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: Measure rolled oats, chia seeds or flaxseeds, and any dry mix-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts into a large bowl. Stir well to create an even base.
- Mix in Peanut Butter and Sweetener: Add peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly with a spoon or clean hands until sticky and well combined.
- Chill the Mixture: Refrigerate the bowl for 10-15 minutes to firm up the mixture, making it easier to handle.
- Roll into Balls: Scoop spoonfuls of the chilled mixture and roll between your palms to form 1-inch balls, aiming for uniform size.
- Final Chill and Set: Place the energy balls on a baking sheet or container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set and develop texture before serving.
Notes
- Use natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for a healthier snack.
- Adjust the sweetness by starting with less honey or syrup and adding more if needed.
- Use rolled oats (not instant) for better texture and chew.
- Roll balls on parchment paper to avoid sticky fingers and simplify cleanup.
- Customize size to make snacks larger or smaller according to preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 energy balls (approximately 30g)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: peanut butter energy balls, protein snack, healthy snack, no bake snack, gluten free, quick snack, on-the-go snack, vegan option, peanut butter bites