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Easy No-Bake Protein Balls with Oats and Chocolate Chips

no-bake protein balls - featured image

These easy no-bake protein balls come together in about 15 minutes with simple pantry ingredients. They’re perfect for busy afternoons, post-workout refueling, or a healthy sweet treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (180g) rolled oats
  • 1 cup (240g) creamy peanut butter (natural, no added sugar)
  • 1/3 cup (110g) honey
  • 1/2 cup (90g) mini chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons (14g) ground flaxseed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: 1/4 cup shredded coconut, 2 tablespoons chia seeds, or 1/4 cup chopped nuts

Instructions

  1. Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add rolled oats, ground flaxseed, and salt. Stir together until evenly distributed.
  2. Add wet ingredients: Spoon in peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until the mixture starts coming together.
  3. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes to allow the oats to absorb moisture.
  4. Fold in mini chocolate chips and any optional mix-ins gently until evenly distributed.
  5. Portion the dough using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons each). You should get 18-20 balls.
  6. Roll each portion into a ball between your palms. If sticky, lightly dampen your hands with water.
  7. Place the rolled balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
  8. Transfer to an airtight container for storage. Layer between parchment paper if stacking.

Notes

Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes before rolling to allow oats to absorb moisture. If dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of honey or water; if too wet, add a tablespoon of oats. For vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup. For nut-free, use sunflower seed butter. Protein powder can be added (up to 2 tablespoons) with an extra tablespoon of honey or water.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake protein balls, protein balls, energy balls, healthy snack, peanut butter, oats, chocolate chips, easy snack, meal prep