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Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls

Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls are quick, easy no-bake snacks packed with protein and healthy fats. Combining creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, oats, and natural sweeteners, they offer a delicious and nutritious bite-sized treat perfect for energy boosts, healthy desserts, or on-the-go snacking. Customizable and satisfying, they are ideal for busy lifestyles and variety in flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup peanut butter (natural, no added sugar or oils)
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips or 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 1 cup protein powder (whey, plant-based, or collagen)
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Add-ins

  • 12 tablespoons chia seeds or flaxseeds
  • Chopped nuts or cacao nibs (for added crunch)
  • Spirulina, matcha, or maca powder (for superfood boost)
  • Pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper (for spiced flavor)
  • Dried fruit such as chopped cranberries, raisins, or cherries

Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: Start by mixing the rolled oats, protein powder, cocoa powder (if using), and any seeds or spices you want to add in a large bowl. This ensures even distribution of flavors and texture throughout the mixture.
  2. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to combine everything into a thick, sticky dough.
  3. Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Fold in the chocolate chips gently to keep them in small pockets inside the mixture, so each bite delivers a burst of chocolate.
  4. Shape the Balls: Pinch off small amounts of dough and roll them between your palms to form bite-sized balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter.
  5. Chill and Set: Place the shaped balls on a baking sheet or plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up and hold their shape before serving.

Notes

  • Adjust sweetness by tasting the dough before shaping and adding more honey or syrup if desired.
  • Use natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for the best flavor and texture.
  • Rolled oats work better than instant oats to provide a satisfying texture without gumminess.
  • Mix ingredients gently to avoid a dry or crumbly dough texture.
  • Store protein balls in an airtight container to preserve freshness and texture.
  • For nut allergies, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
  • Vegan option: use maple syrup instead of honey and a plant-based protein powder.
  • Freeze leftover protein balls for longer storage; thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before eating.

Nutrition

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