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Easy No-Bake Protein Energy Balls: Best 5-Minute Healthy Snack

no-bake protein energy balls - featured image

These no-bake protein energy balls with oats and honey are the perfect healthy snack. Made with simple pantry ingredients, they come together in just 5 minutes and are great for pre-workout fuel, afternoon slumps, or after-school snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (90g) rolled oats
  • ½ cup (130g) creamy peanut butter
  • ⅓ cup (110g) honey
  • ¼ cup (45g) mini chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons (14g) ground flaxseed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup (20g) shredded coconut (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons protein powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup rolled oats, 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed, and ¼ teaspoon salt. If using optional dry add-ins like chia seeds or shredded coconut, add them now. Stir to distribute evenly.
  2. Add the wet ingredients: Pour in ½ cup creamy peanut butter, ⅓ cup honey, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Distribute the peanut butter and honey in dollops across the oat mixture.
  3. Mix until combined: Use a spatula to fold everything together until no dry oats remain. The mixture should be cohesive and slightly sticky. If too dry, add another tablespoon of honey or peanut butter. If too wet, add a tablespoon of oats.
  4. Fold in the chocolate chips: Sprinkle ¼ cup mini chocolate chips over the mixture and gently fold until evenly distributed.
  5. Chill the mixture (optional but recommended): Refrigerate the bowl for 10-15 minutes to firm up the mixture for easier rolling.
  6. Roll into balls: Line a baking sheet or plate with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop even portions and roll into smooth balls about 1 inch in diameter. You should get about 16-18 balls.
  7. Chill to set: Place the rolled balls on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  8. Store and enjoy: Transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months.

Notes

For best texture, use natural peanut butter that has been stirred well. If the mixture is too sticky, chill before rolling. These taste even better after a day in the fridge as flavors meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: energy balls, protein balls, no-bake, healthy snack, oats, peanut butter, honey, gluten-free, dairy-free