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No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes (includes chilling time)
  • Yield: 18-24 protein balls
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

These No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls are a delicious, quick, and easy snack packed with protein and wholesome ingredients. Combining creamy peanut butter, oats, chocolate protein powder, and a touch of sweetness, these energy bites are perfect for on-the-go fuel, post-workout snacks, or a healthy treat. They require no baking and are simple to prepare, offering a moist, chewy texture with a rich chocolate and peanut butter flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup natural creamy peanut butter (well-stirred)
  • 1/3 cup honey or pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2–4 tablespoons water or milk of choice (only as needed to adjust texture)

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup quick oats (for better binding; or use all rolled oats if preferred)
  • 1/3 cup chocolate protein powder (whey or plant-based)
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed or chia seeds
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

Add-ins

  • 1/3 cup mini dark chocolate chips or finely chopped dark chocolate
  • Optional mix-ins (choose up to 1/2 cup total):
  • 2–3 tablespoons shredded unsweetened coconut
  • 2 tablespoons chopped peanuts
  • 2 tablespoons hemp hearts
  • 2 tablespoons dried fruit, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare your workspace: Line a baking sheet or a large plate with parchment paper to prevent the protein balls from sticking. Clear some counter space for rolling.
  2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until smooth and fully combined. If peanut butter is very thick or cold, microwave for 10–15 seconds to soften, then stir again.
  3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, add rolled oats, quick oats, protein powder, cocoa powder, ground flaxseed (or chia seeds), and salt. Whisk or stir thoroughly to evenly distribute ingredients and remove clumps.
  4. Form the base mixture: Add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture. Stir with a sturdy spoon or spatula, folding the ingredients together until the mixture forms a thick, dense dough. Press and fold to fully hydrate oats and powders.
  5. Adjust texture with liquid: Check the dough by pressing some between your fingers. If too crumbly and not holding, add water or milk one tablespoon at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Aim for a dough consistency similar to cookie dough—moist, cohesive, easy to roll without cracking, but not sticky or runny. Usually, 2–3 tablespoons of liquid suffice.
  6. Fold in chocolate and optional mix-ins: Add mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate and any optional mix-ins such as coconut, chopped peanuts, hemp hearts, or dried fruit. Stir and fold until evenly distributed.
  7. Chill briefly for easier rolling: If the mixture feels soft or sticky, refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to firm up the peanut butter and make dough easier to handle.
  8. Shape the protein balls: Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough into mounds about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Roll each portion between palms to form smooth, round balls. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet or plate. This should yield approximately 18–24 balls depending on size.
  9. Final chill and set: Transfer the tray or plate to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes to firm up and allow flavors to meld. After chilling, they are ready to enjoy or store.
  10. Storage: Transfer protein balls to an airtight container. Store refrigerated up to one week. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2–3 months. To serve from frozen, let sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes to soften slightly.

Notes

  • Use natural creamy peanut butter for best texture and flavor.
  • If preferred, substitute honey with pure maple syrup for a vegan option.
  • Protein powder type can be whey or plant-based depending on preference.
  • The liquid amount varies depending on the protein powder and peanut butter consistency; add gradually to avoid a runny dough.
  • Optional mix-ins add texture and flavor but are not necessary.
  • Chilling the dough before rolling helps manage stickiness and makes rolling easier.
  • Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and avoid drying out.
  • Can be customized with other mix-ins like seeds or nuts as desired.

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Find it online: https://socialfoodrecipes.com/no-bake-chocolate-peanut-butter-protein-balls-recipe/