No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls Recipe
No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls are a quick, healthy, and indulgent snack perfect for breakfast on the go, post-workout energy, or guilt-free dessert. Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, these bite-sized treats are easy to prepare and require no oven—just mix, roll, and enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup natural peanut butter
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- ½ cup protein powder (chocolate or vanilla)
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional: shredded coconut, chia seeds, or crushed nuts for rolling
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine rolled oats, cocoa powder, protein powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until a sticky dough forms.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in mini chocolate chips for bursts of chocolate in every bite.
- Form Balls: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Optional Coating: Roll balls in shredded coconut, crushed nuts, or cocoa powder for extra flavor and texture.
- Chill: Place balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Serve & Store: Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Can also be frozen for longer storage.
Tips for Perfect Protein Balls
- Consistency: If dough is too dry, add 1–2 tsp water or milk. If too sticky, add extra oats or protein powder.
- Sweetness: Adjust honey or maple syrup to taste.
- Protein Options: Use plant-based or whey protein powder depending on dietary preference.
- Rolling Tips: Lightly oil hands to prevent sticking while forming balls.
Variations
- Nut-Free: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cinnamon, instant coffee, or orange zest.
- Mix-Ins: Include dried fruit, pumpkin seeds, or cocoa nibs for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a pre-workout energy snack.
- Pack in lunchboxes for a healthy, grab-and-go treat.
- Pair with a glass of milk or smoothie for a balanced mini-meal.
Fun Facts & Cultural Context
Protein balls have gained popularity in recent years as a nutritious snack that combines whole grains, healthy fats, and protein. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is a timeless flavor pairing loved worldwide. These no-bake versions save time and energy while maintaining indulgent taste.
Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.
- Keeps well for meal prep or portion-controlled snacking.
Recipe Notes
- Use natural, unsweetened peanut butter for a healthier option.
- Mini chocolate chips distribute chocolate evenly without overpowering sweetness.
- Adjust oats quantity to achieve preferred texture—more oats make firmer balls.
Nutrition (per serving, 2 balls)
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 9g
- Vitamin A: 0%
- Calcium: 4%
- Iron: 8%
No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls
Quick and easy no-bake protein balls with chocolate and peanut butter for a healthy snack or energy boost.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, mix rolled oats, cocoa powder, protein powder, and salt.
- Add peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until sticky dough forms.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips.
- Form mixture into 1-inch balls using hands or cookie scoop.
- Optionally roll in shredded coconut or crushed nuts.
- Place on parchment-lined tray and refrigerate at least 30 minutes.
- Serve immediately or store in airtight container in fridge or freezer.
Notes
Use natural peanut butter for healthier option. Adjust oats for desired texture.
