In this post:
Ingredients in Energy Balls | How to Make Protein Energy Balls | Possible Energy Bite Variations | More Recipes
When I’m on the go, I’m all for tossing some fruit or a container of veggies in my bag in case I need a snack in between meals. These protein energy balls are the perfect healthy snack to satisfy a sweet craving and get in some oh-so-necessary protein.
These no-bake protein balls are jam-packed with plant-based protein and complex carbs, sure to hold you through ’til your next meal. Or you can save them as a tasty treat to end your day, with enough protein to keep your tummy full ’til the sun rises.
Ingredients In Energy Balls
Here are the ingredients you’ll need for these yummy peanut butter protein balls:
- 2 cups rolled oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats work the best. Feel free to use a gluten-free alternative as well.
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut: I’m a big fan of coconut and love the chewiness and flavor it gives the energy balls.
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds, roughly chopped: I love the saltiness and texture that pumpkin seeds lend to the mixture. Plus they’re packed full of magnesium and antioxidants!
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped: I prefer the texture and crunch that pecans give these energy bites, but you can always substitute for whatever you have on hand — walnuts, almonds, cashews, etc.
- 1/4 cup chia seeds: Chia seeds are full of healthy fats and act as a thickener to hold these energy bites together.
- 1 cup peanut butter: Try finding peanut butter without unnecessary additives when possible. You can also substitute in different nut butters of your choice, such as almond butter or cashew butter. This will slightly change the flavor profile.
- 3/4 cup vegan chocolate chips: Toss in your favorite chocolate chips or mix things up and throw in mini chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or cocoa nibs.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: If you don’t have vanilla extract, you can certainly omit it — but it does add a bit more flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: A dash of cinnamon is the perfect final ingredient to add a bit more of a punch of flavor.
How to Make Protein Energy Balls
- In a large mixing bowl, mix together the rolled oats, shredded coconut, pumpkin seeds, pecans, chia seeds, and chocolate chips. Alternatively, you can place all of the ingredients in a food processor and pulse them until combined (but be careful you don’t blend them too much).
- Mix in wet ingredients: peanut butter, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until incorporated.
- Using your hands, grab some of the mixture and start rolling together in about one-inch balls. Squeeze them firmly to help everything stick together. Alternatively, you can use a cookie scoop to form them into balls (but let’s be honest — using your hands is way more fun!).
- Place the rolled energy balls onto a baking sheet and chill them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. You can also put them in the freezer to help them firm up quickly.
If you’re planning on freezing half, don’t be afraid to make a double batch. They’ll go quickly if you’re not careful!
There’s something satisfying about rolling these energy bites into little balls — adult Playdough, anyone?
How to Store Energy Balls
To keep these energy balls fresh and tasty you can:
- Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks (This method is convenient for ready-to-eat snacks).
- For longer storage, freeze the energy balls. Place them in an airtight container, and they can last up to 2–3 months. This is great for making large batches in advance. You’ll simply need to thaw them for about half an hour before eating.
Possible Energy Bite Variations
Don’t be afraid to make these no-bake energy bites your own! There are so many variations you can try to satisfy your sweet tooth. Here are a few things you can do to create variations of this recipe (without sacrificing their energy-boosting powers).
Try a Different Nut Butter
While peanut butter is my go-to, you can substitute almost any nut butter. Try almond butter, cashew butter, or pistachio butter. Experiment with the amount to make sure the energy balls have the right texture to stick together. Depending on the nut butter you choose, you may also need to pulse it in the food processor longer.
Can I Make them with Protein Powder?
While protein powder isn’t necessary in these energy balls, adding protein powder can boost the protein content significantly. Plant-based proteins like pea or hemp are great for maintaining a vegan recipe. Why not add in your favorite chocolate protein powder? Not a big chocolate fan? Throw in vanilla protein powder to transform these treats.
Can I Make them Nut-Free?
Substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter, coconut oil, or tahini to make the energy balls nut-free. These alternatives provide similar binding properties and nutritional benefits.
Can I Make Bars Instead?
If you prefer bars, press the mixture into a baking dish (8 1/2 x 11) lined with parchment paper. After chilling, cut it into bars. This shape might be easier for packing in lunches or as a more substantial snack.
Help! My Energy Balls are too Dry
If your protein balls are too dry, you can add in more peanut butter until you get the right consistency. Just make sure you slowly add in a bit more nut butter so they don’t end up too wet (or they won’t stick together).
Can I Use a Different Sweetener?
You can experiment by adding maple syrup or Medjool dates.
Try Some Different Add-Ins
There are many mix-ins you can test to change the flavor or texture. Consider giving some of these a go!
- Dried cranberries, cherries, blueberries, raisins, etc.
- Hemp seeds, sunflower seeds, ground flax seed, etc.
- Cocoa powder (or cacao powder)
How will you make this absolutely delicious sweet treat your own? Tell me in the comments!
More Recipes You’ll Love
Need more healthy snacking ideas? Check out a few more of my protein ball recipes:
- No-Bake Cherry Vanilla Protein Bars: I absolutely love the cherry vanilla combo! This variation also includes almond milk and maple syrup. Yum!
- Matcha Pistachio Bliss Balls: If you’re a fan of match (and love the subtle saltiness of pistachios) this variation is for you!
- Raw Brownie Bites: Medjool dates and cocoa powder take these sweet brownie bites to the next level!
- Protein Power Balls: This simple variation calls for cocoa powder and your favorite chocolate protein powder.
Which no-bake protein balls will you try next?
