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Easy No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls

chocolate peanut butter protein balls - featured image

These no-bake chocolate peanut butter protein balls are quick, healthy, and packed with protein. Perfect for snacks, lunchboxes, or post-workout fuel, they come together in minutes and are easily customizable for dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3/4 cup (180g) peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, unsweetened preferred)
  • 1 cup (90g) rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick oats)
  • 1/2 cup (60g) chocolate protein powder (whey or plant-based)
  • 2 tablespoons (15g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup (80g) honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons (18g) chia seeds (optional)
  • 1/4 cup (40g) mini chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark, optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Gather all ingredients. Measure out peanut butter, oats, protein powder, cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup, chia seeds, mini chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt. For smoother texture, pulse half the oats in a food processor for about 10 seconds.
  2. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well blended.
  3. Add oats, protein powder, cocoa powder, chia seeds, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until combined. If too dry, add a splash of milk or more peanut butter. If too sticky, add a tablespoon of oats.
  4. Gently fold in mini chocolate chips. If mixture is warm, chill for a few minutes before adding chips.
  5. Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out dough and roll between palms to form 1-inch balls. You should get about 16-20 balls.
  6. Place balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
  7. After chilling, transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Notes

Use certified gluten-free oats for gluten-free version. For vegan, swap honey for maple syrup and use plant-based protein powder and dairy-free chocolate chips. Adjust sweetness and texture by adding more honey, peanut butter, or oats as needed. Pulse oats for smoother texture. Store in fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: protein balls, no-bake, chocolate peanut butter, healthy snack, gluten-free, vegan, easy recipe, post-workout, kid-friendly, meal prep