These Peanut Butter Energy Balls are chewy, cookie dough-like, and packed with wholesome ingredients—all made in one bowl with just 5 simple pantry staples! No baking required, and they’re ready in under 10 minutes. Each bite is full of protein, healthy fats, and just the right amount of sweetness to keep you satisfied and energized.
We’ve been obsessed with these lately—so much so that I always double the batch because they disappear fast! Whether you’re meal prepping snacks for the week or need a quick grab-and-go breakfast, these no-bake energy bites are a must-make.
Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Energy Balls
- ✅ No baking required
- ✅ 5 ingredients and one bowl
- ✅ Taste just like cookie dough
- ✅ Naturally gluten-free (use certified oats)
- ✅ Easy to customize and perfect for meal prep
Ingredients You’ll Need
You likely have everything in your pantry already! Here’s what goes into these delicious protein bites:
- Old-fashioned oats – For that chewy texture; make sure to use certified gluten-free oats if needed.
- Peanut butter – Brings flavor, protein, and healthy fats. You can swap with almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter.
- Mini chocolate chips – For a touch of sweetness in every bite.
- Ground flaxseed – Adds fiber, omega-3s, and a protein boost.
- Honey (or maple syrup/agave) – Acts as the binder and natural sweetener. Use maple syrup or agave to make them vegan.
How to Make Peanut Butter Energy Balls
Step 1: Mix the ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the oats, peanut butter, chocolate chips, ground flaxseed, and honey until well combined.
Step 2: Chill the mixture
Refrigerate the mixture for 10–15 minutes to firm up—this makes it easier to roll.
Step 3: Roll into balls
Scoop and roll into about 18 bite-sized balls. Store in the fridge or freezer and enjoy whenever you need a quick, nourishing snack!
Expert Tips
- Chill before rolling – Letting the dough rest in the fridge reduces stickiness and makes forming balls easier.
- No flaxseed? Substitute with chia seeds, hemp seeds, protein powder, wheat germ, or a bit more oats.
- Make bars instead – Press the mixture into a parchment-lined pan, chill, and slice into bars for a portable snack.
Variations
- Nut-free: Use sunflower seed butter for a school-safe, nut-free version.
- Add-ins: Mix in shredded coconut, chopped dried fruit (like cranberries or dates), or a dash of cinnamon or vanilla extract.
- Make them vegan: Use maple syrup or agave instead of honey.
FAQs
Are peanut butter energy balls healthy?
Yes! These are packed with whole ingredients—protein, healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. They’re a great snack to keep you full and energized.
How many energy balls should I eat a day?
1–2 balls make a great snack portion. They’re nutrient-dense, so a little goes a long way!
How much protein is in each ball?
Each energy ball contains about 5 grams of protein, depending on the brand of peanut butter and flaxseed you use.
Storage Tips
These store beautifully and are great for meal prepping:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Let thaw at room temp for 30 minutes or overnight in the fridge.
More Healthy Snacks to Try
- 🧡 [Pumpkin Date Energy Balls]
- 🥭 [Mango Cashew Energy Balls]
- 🍫 [Peanut Butter Protein Brownies]
- 🍪 [Peanut Butter Oatmeal Protein Cookies]
- 💪 [No-Bake Protein Bars]
Recipe Card
Peanut Butter Energy Balls
Easy, chewy no-bake energy bites made with oats, peanut butter, flaxseed, honey, and chocolate chips.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 18 balls
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- ½ cup ground flaxseed
- 4 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup/agave)
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and mix until well combined.
- Chill the mixture for 10–15 minutes.
- Roll into 18 small balls. Store in an airtight container in the fridge (up to 2 weeks) or freezer (up to 3 months).