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stack of peanut butter oatmeal energy balls on small plate
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Peanut Butter Oatmeal Balls

5-ingredient peanut butter oatmeal balls taste like dessert but are packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, & are super quick and easy to make! A nutrient-dense, gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan snack!
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Chill time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 11 balls

Ingredients

  • 1 ⅓ cup (120 g) rolled oats gluten-free if needed (or instant oats)
  • 2 Tbsp (20 g) chia seeds or ground flax seed (optional)
  • 1/3-1/2 cup (80-120 g) creamy peanut butter or nut/seed butter of choice (see notes)
  • ¼ cup (80 g) maple syrup or liquid sweetener of choice (agave, rice malt syrup, date syrup, etc.)
  • 3 Tbsp (30 g) dairy-free chocolate chips (optional- more add-ins mentioned in post)

Instructions

  • You can watch the video for visual instructions.
    First, heat the peanut butter in a double boiler or microwave until it softens. Set it aside to cool.
    If the peanut butter is already runny (like natural peanut butter), skip this step.
  • Then, combine the oats and chia seeds (optional) in a medium bowl. Add the runny peanut butter, sweetener, and chocolate chips (if using) and stir until well combined.
  • Transfer the mixing bowl to the freezer for about 10-15 minutes to help the mixture firm up (important for easily rolling the balls).
  • Using a small ice cream scoop (or cookie scoop), divide and roll the mixture with your hands (oil your hands if needed). I had enough dough for 11 balls.
  • You can enjoy the peanut butter oat energy balls immediately, or transfer them back to the refrigerator to firm up slightly more.

Notes

  • Peanut Butter: Using 1/3 cup (80g) will give you a crunchier, drier snack, while 1/2 cup (120g) will make the balls softer and more dessert-like.
  • Allow the peanut butter to cool: If it’s too warm, it will melt the chocolate chips.
  • Chia seeds: I’ve made this recipe without them before, and it still turned out great! The texture will just be softer and less crunchy. You can also try using a smaller amount.
  • To adjust the dough: If dry/crumbly, add more peanut butter, sweetener, or some milk. If it’s too wet, add oats or another thickener, like protein powder.
  • Adjust the sweetness: Then, adjust the dry/wet ingredients accordingly.
  • Don’t skip chilling: This firms up the dough, making it easier to shape the energy bites. Dampen your hands with water/oil to prevent sticking while rolling.
  • Read the post for recipe and flavor variations.
Nutrition Facts
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Balls
Serving Size
 
1 ball
Amount per Serving
Calories
113
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
5
g
8
%
Saturated Fat
 
1
g
5
%
Sodium
 
35
mg
1
%
Potassium
 
105
mg
3
%
Carbohydrates
 
12.5
g
4
%
Fiber
 
2.1
g
8
%
Sugar
 
5
g
6
%
Protein
 
3.4
g
7
%
Vitamin A
 
1
IU
0
%
Vitamin C
 
0.03
mg
0
%
Calcium
 
31
mg
3
%
Iron
 
1
mg
6
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.