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Energy Balls Recipe

This no-bake energy balls recipe is the perfect breakfast or portable snack loaded with good for you ingredients. Made in one bowl in only 5 minutes with 5 ingredients!

Other energy balls we love for quick bites include chocolate peanut butter protein balls, and almond joy no-bake energy bites.

Energy balls stacked in a white bowl.
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No Bake Energy Bites

We love to make energy and protein balls for quick grab-and-go snacks. This energy balls recipe is one of our favorites, as well as these Kodiak cakes protein balls and lemon coconut energy balls.

I’m always on the lookout for healthy snacks, and these 5 ingredient protein balls seem to be my go-to when I’m craving something sweet. Not only are they absolutely delicious, but they’re also a great source of protein.

Why You’ll Love These Energy Balls

  • Quick boost of energy: Made with simple wholesome ingredients, these balls are a cross between granola bars and cookie dough.
  • Family friendly: My husband and kids love these 5-ingredient protein balls for healthy on-the-go snacks.
  • Make ahead: Make these oatmeal energy bites at the beginning of the week and store in the fridge or freezer.

Ingredients

I like to start with these 5 pantry ingredients below when making energy balls. The best part is you probably already have them on hand!

Energy ball ingredients on the counter.

Find the full printable recipe with specific measurements below.

  • Old-fashioned oats: These are dry oats that are flavorless with a thick texture to them. They are also known as rolled oats. Use gluten-free oats if needed.
  • Peanut butter: Binds all the ingredients together and adds flavor!
  • Honey: Gives the energy balls a natural sweetness.
  • Flax seed: This is a hidden ingredient that helps add healthiness but doesn’t have much flavor.
  • Chocolate chips: Always a favorite to add into energy bites for a hint of chocolate!

Substitutions and Variations

There are plenty of ways to customize these no bake energy balls. Grab a bowl and start adding in your favorite variations!

  • Add in an additional scoop of protein powder or collagen for extra protein.
  • Add a Tablespoon or two of chia seeds for a boost in antioxidants.
  • Mix in 1/4 cup coconut and 1/4 cup dried cranberries in place of the chocolate chips.
  • Use half chocolate chips and half mini M&M’s like I did when making these monster energy balls.
  • Add in your favorite seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
  • Replace the peanut butter with almond butter, nut butter, sunflower seed butter, or cashew butter.
  • Replace the oats with Kodiak power cakes mix.
  • Omit the flaxseed and chocolate chips for 3 Ingredient peanut butter oatmeal balls.

How to Make Energy Balls

These energy balls are a quick and easy snack that are made with natural ingredients, healthy fats and loved ball all!

Showing how to make energy balls in a glass bowl.
  1. Mix. In a large mixing bowl combine all ingredients together, roll into balls, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  2. Freeze. Place baking sheet in the freezer until energy balls are hard so that they hold their shape.
  3. Store. Store in a zip-top bag or airtight container.

Expert Tips

  • Chill dough before rolling. If time permits, chilling your dough before rolling into balls makes it less sticky! Wetting your hands also helps.
  • Use a cookie dough scoop. This will help form evenly shaped balls. It’s also faster to form the bites this way!
  • Too dry. The mixture should be slightly sticky. If it’s too dry, add more honey or peanut butter. If it’s too wet, add more oats.
Energy balls stacked in bowl.

5 star review

“We love these energy balls. Perfect size to quench that sweet craving. Lots of great ingredients. Thanks for recipe. Also my grand girls love them too and they have no idea it’s healthy. Yeah!!”

-Fran

Recipe FAQs

Are energy balls good for you?

Yes! Energy balls are protein-packed and healthy to eat. They are high in fats and fiber making them a go-to snack!

Do protein balls give you energy?

For sure! These little bite-sized energy balls do just that! Give you energy! They are supplied with a bunch of good fats and energy to help you keep going throughout the day.

Can I substitute flax seeds?

Yes, try hemp seeds or chia seeds. You could even just add more oats or unsweetened shredded coconut.

What can I use instead of honey?

Pure maple syrup can be used instead of honey to make vegan energy bites. I do think that honey binds a bit better. If you mixture seems dry you may need to add water.

How to store energy bites?

You can either place them in a zip-top bag or an airtight container. If storing in a bag, I like to freeze them a little longer initially so they retain their shape when placed in the bag.

If storing at room temperature, store them in an airtight container so that the balls don’t touch or stick together. They will keep for about 1 week at room temperature or around 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze energy balls?

I actually prefer mine frozen. It helps them to keep their shape, plus it’s perfect for an easy grab-and-go snack. Simply add to a zip-top bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Energy balls in a clear container.

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Energy balls stacked in a white bowl.

Energy Balls Recipe

5 from 77 votes
↑ Click stars to rate now!
Author: Jamielyn Nye
No-bake energy balls recipe is the perfect breakfast or portable snack made in one bowl in only 5 minutes with 5 ingredients!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Freeze: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 30

Video

Ingredients 

Optional add in's: splash of vanilla, pinch of salt, pinch of cinnamon, ground flax seed, chia seeds, protein powder, rice krispies, coconut

    Instructions

    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Combine the old-fashioned oats, peanut butter, honey, and chocolate chips. I like to add a splash of vanilla and a pinch of sea salt too. Add in any other desired mix-ins. Stir until combined.
    • Use a small cookie scoop or Tablespoon and round them into balls. Place pan in the refrigerator or freezer until hard. Then store in a zip-top bag or covered container for up to 2 weeks in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.

    Notes

    Note: If you add extra ingredients and the mixture feels too dry, add a little more peanut butter and honey.
    If it feels too sticky, add a Tablespoon or two more of oats or protein powder.
    Variation: Recently I’ve been doing 1/2 cup oats and 1/2 cup kodiak cakes.
    Recipe change: I have changed the recipe slightly over the years. Here is the original ingredients. Follow the same instructions: 
    • 1 cup old fashioned oats
    • 2/3 cup creamy peanut butter
    • 1/4 cup honey
    • 1/4 cup ground flax seed
    • 1/4- 1/2 cup dark or semi sweet chocolate chips

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1ball | Calories: 75kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 6mg | Sodium: 47mg | Potassium: 79mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 1mg

    Nutrition provided is an estimate. It will vary based on specific ingredients used.

    Course: Snack
    Cuisine: American

    Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to give it a star rating below!

    Taking an energy ball from bowl.

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