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Energy Balls Recipe

This no-bake energy balls recipe make the perfect breakfast, snack, or even dessert. So delicious and only takes 5 minutes and 5 ingredients to make!

Energy balls stacked in bowl.
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Family Favorite Snack

We love to make energy and protein balls for a quick grab-and-go snack. These peanut butter energy balls are one of our favorites, as well as chocolate peanut butter protein balls, almond joy no-bake energy bites, and lemon coconut energy balls.

I’m always on the lookout for healthy snacks, and these no-bake energy snacks 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.

I love to grab them on the go when headed out or when I need a quick boost of energy in the afternoon. Much healthier than grabbing a candy bar. My husband and kids also love these energy bites too, which is definitely a plus!

At the beginning of the week, I like to make a big batch of them and then stick them in the freezer. When I’m in need of a quick snack or energy boost, I can just grab one and go. Seriously so easy and a great healthy snack option!

Ingredients

I like to start with the 5 base ingredients below when making energy balls. There are so many ways to customize them to your taste, like subbing chocolate chips for dried cranberries or replacing peanut butter with almond butter.

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. You can find them in the cereal aisle.
  • 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 in a hint of chocolate!

How to Make Energy Balls

These energy balls are a quick and easy snack that is loved by all! They are perfect to make for a trip, game night, or a snack. These have all the healthy fats you need and can be made with natural sweetener ingredients, gluten-free, or using pantry staples that you love!

Showing how to make energy balls in a glass bowl.
  1. Mix. Mix 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.

TIP: I like to store my protein balls in the freezer to extend their shelf life. Then I always have a quick snack option on hand!

Variations for the Best Energy Bites

There are plenty of ways to customize these no bake energy balls. Grab a bowl and start adding in your favorite variations and make the perfect energy bites for your family! Get creative with shredded coconut, white or dark chocolate chips, or use maple syrup instead of honey. Below are some of my favorites!

  • 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, nut butter, sunflower seed butter, or cashew butter.
  • Replace the oats with Kodiak power cakes mix like I did when making these Kodiak cakes protein balls.
Energy balls in a clear container.

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.

How many energy balls should you eat a day?

Everything should be made in moderation. Having one to two protein balls a day would give you enough energy and boost to help you throughout the day as well as feel healthy.

Storage + Freezing

To store: You can either place them in a zip-top bag or an airtight container. Just make sure to freeze them for a little bit once you roll them into balls so that they harden up. This helps the energy balls to hold their shape when you add them to the bag.

If storing at room temperature, I’ll typically store them in an airtight container so that I can spread the balls out to where they don’t touch too much. This helps to make sure that they don’t stick together. They will keep for about 1 week at room temperature or around 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

To freeze: 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 stacked in a white bowl.

Are you looking for more energy ball recipes!? Try these monster energy balls, my favorite almond joy energy balls, or these 3 ingredients peanut butter bites for more choices!

More Healthy Snack Ideas

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Energy balls stacked in a white bowl.

Energy Balls Recipe

5 from 66 votes
↑ Click stars to rate now!
Author: Jamielyn Nye
These no-bake energy balls make the perfect breakfast, snack or even dessert. So delicious and only take 5 minutes and 5 ingredients to make!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Freeze: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 30

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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