Easy No-Bake Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls
These no-bake protein balls combine dark chocolate and peanut butter for a quick, delicious energy boost. They are easy to make, require no baking, and are perfect for on-the-go snacking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 15 balls 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (240 ml) natural peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1 cup (90 g) rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
- ½ cup (90 g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
- ¼ cup (30 g) protein powder (vanilla or chocolate flavor)
- 3 tbsp (45 ml) honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp (12 g) chia seeds (optional)
- 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Measure out all ingredients: peanut butter, rolled oats, dark chocolate chips, protein powder, honey or maple syrup, chia seeds (optional), vanilla extract, and sea salt.
- In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well blended, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add rolled oats, protein powder, chia seeds, sea salt, and chocolate chips. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine without overmixing.
- Check the mixture consistency; it should be thick, pliable, and sticky enough to hold together. Adjust by adding a teaspoon of water or more peanut butter if too dry, or more oats or protein powder if too wet.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls using clean hands or a small cookie scoop. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
- Refrigerate the protein balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Alternatively, freeze for longer storage and thaw for 10 minutes before eating.
- Enjoy as a quick energy-boosting snack. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
Notes
Use natural peanut butter to avoid excess oiliness. Chill the balls before serving to help them hold their shape. You can warm peanut butter slightly if too stiff. Protein powder is optional but adds protein and texture. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 protein ball
- Calories: 110
- Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 5
Keywords: no-bake, protein balls, dark chocolate, peanut butter, quick snack, energy boost, healthy snack, easy recipe