Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Peanut Butter Balls are incredibly easy to make, requiring just one bowl and no baking. They’re naturally sweetened, kid-friendly, and perfect for on-the-go snacking. Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, they’ll keep you full and energized between meals. Plus, they’re fully customizable with add-ins like chocolate chips, seeds, or coconut.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Peanut butter (natural or creamy)
- Rolled oats
- Honey or maple syrup
- Ground flaxseed or chia seeds (optional)
- Mini chocolate chips (optional)
- Vanilla extract (optional)
- A pinch of salt (if using unsalted peanut butter)
Directions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract.
- Stir in the oats, flaxseed or chia seeds, and salt if using. Mix until well combined.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips if desired.
- Using your hands or a cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Store in the fridge or freezer until ready to enjoy.
Servings and timing
Makes about 12–15 peanut butter balls.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
No baking required.
Variations
- Add protein: Mix in a scoop of your favorite protein powder.
- Nut-free: Use sunflower seed butter or almond butter as a substitute.
- Coconut crunch: Roll the balls in shredded coconut before chilling.
- Fruit twist: Add dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates.
- Crunchy version: Use crunchy peanut butter or stir in chopped nuts.
Storage/Reheating
Store in an airtight container:
- In the refrigerator for up to 1 week
- In the freezer for up to 2 months
No reheating needed. Let frozen balls sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before eating.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, quick oats work fine, but the texture may be slightly softer.
Are these peanut butter balls healthy?
Yes, they’re made with wholesome ingredients and provide a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
Can I make them without sweetener?
You can reduce or skip the honey/maple syrup if your peanut butter is already slightly sweet.
What kind of peanut butter works best?
Natural, creamy peanut butter without added sugar or oils is ideal.
Are these good for kids?
Yes, they’re a great, nutritious snack for kids and lunchboxes.
Can I use almond butter instead?
Yes, almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter all work well as substitutes.
Can I add protein powder?
Absolutely. Add 1–2 tablespoons of protein powder and adjust the wet ingredients as needed.
How do I keep them from being sticky?
If the mixture is too sticky, add more oats or chill the mixture before rolling.
Can I coat these in chocolate?
Yes, dip them in melted dark or milk chocolate and refrigerate until the coating sets.
Do I have to refrigerate them?
Yes, refrigeration helps them stay firm and fresh. They can sit at room temperature for a few hours but are best stored chilled.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Balls are the ultimate quick snack—easy to make, filled with nutritious ingredients, and perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re grabbing one after a workout or enjoying it as a dessert, these little bites offer big flavor and lasting energy in every bite.
PrintPeanut Butter Balls
Peanut Butter Balls are no-bake, protein-rich snacks made with peanut butter, oats, and natural sweeteners. Perfect for meal prep, on-the-go snacking, or a healthy treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 12–15 balls
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Universal
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter (natural or creamy)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseed or chia seeds (optional)
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt (if using unsalted peanut butter)
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract.
- Stir in rolled oats, flaxseed or chia seeds, and salt if needed. Mix until well combined.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips, if using.
- Using your hands or a small scoop, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Store in the fridge or freezer until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Chill the mixture before rolling if it’s too sticky.
- Add more oats if the mixture is too wet, or more peanut butter if too dry.
- Can be dipped in melted chocolate for a dessert-style treat.
- Customize with dried fruit, nuts, or coconut flakes for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg