If you’re looking for more easy and energizing snacks, you’ll also love my Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars, Vegan Granola, and Vegan No Bake Cookies. These no-bake Peanut Butter Energy Balls taste like a mix between an oatmeal chocolate chip cookie and a peanut butter cookie! They’re just as chewy, sweet, and addictive, but a little better for you thanks to the 5 wholesome ingredients. Plus, as a no-bake recipe, they’re ready to eat in a matter of minutes. You’ll always find a batch of peanut butter and oat balls in my fridge or freezer because they’re a convenient way to power me through a sleepy afternoon. One or two energy bites later, and I’m feeling like myself again! I can’t get enough of the mix of peanut butter, old-fashioned oats, and vegan chocolate chips in each one, but you can easily put your own spin on the recipe with your favorite add-ins. Shredded coconut, protein powder, or warm spices are all welcome! Whatever you do, I know you’ll love this fun, easy, and energizing snack.
Why this is the best peanut butter energy balls recipe
An easy no-bake treat – Just stir the 5 feel-good ingredients together in one bowl, roll into bite-sized balls, and enjoy! Perfect for an energy boost! Grab one or two chocolate chip energy balls whenever you need a quick pick-me-up (that isn’t a cup of coffee). Make them your own – I’ve included a bunch of add-in ideas and flavor boosters to help you customize your energy bites.
Ingredients needed
Creamy peanut butter: Or use crunchy if you’d like some texture. You can use natural peanut butter (the kind that needs to be stirred) but I prefer the no stir variety. Old-fashioned rolled oats: I haven’t tried using quick oats as a substitute, but they should work. Use gluten free certified if needed. Ground flaxseeds – Or chia or hemp seeds. Maple syrup or agave Mini vegan chocolate chips: Check out the other mix-in ideas below!
How to make peanut butter energy balls
Find the complete recipe with measurements in the recipe card below. Stir all of the ingredients together in a medium-sized mixing bowl until combined. Place the bowl in the fridge for 30 minutes so the oat mixture can chill and firm up slightly. Afterward, use a cookie scoop or a spoon to roll the oat mixture into 1-inch balls. Enjoy the balls right away or chill them for later. Are the oats sticking to your hands? Wet your hands with a little water to keep the oat mixture from sticking as much.
Variations
Put your own spin on this energy bites recipe with these variation ideas:
Peanut butter energy bars – Instead of rolling it into bite-sized balls, press the oat mixture into a parchment-lined 9×13 baking dish and chill until they’re solid. Cut into bars and enjoy! Chocolate energy balls – Mix 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder with the oats and peanut butter. Add protein powder – Add 1 scoop of peanut butter, vanilla, chocolate, or unflavored vegan protein powder. You may need to add a little more peanut butter or maple syrup if the mixture is dry. Add warm flavor boosters – Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a little sweetness or 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for warmth. More add-in ideas – Feel free to swap the chocolate chips with chopped nuts (almonds, peanuts, walnuts, etc.), dried fruit (dates, cranberries, raisins, etc.), rainbow sprinkles, or shredded coconut.
Frequently asked questions
