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Easy High-Protein Peanut Butter Protein Balls (No-Bake)

easy high-protein peanut butter protein balls no-bake - featured image

These no-bake peanut butter protein balls are a quick, satisfying snack made with simple, whole-food ingredients. They’re naturally sweetened, packed with protein and fiber, and perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (90g) rolled oats
  • ½ cup (130g) creamy peanut butter (natural, no added sugar)
  • ½ cup pitted Medjool dates (about 56 dates)
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons (14g) ground flaxseed
  • ¼ cup (45g) mini chocolate chips
  • Pinch of sea salt (for topping)

Instructions

  1. If dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 5-10 minutes, then drain well.
  2. Pulse rolled oats in a food processor 5-6 times until they form a coarse flour. Transfer to a mixing bowl and set aside.
  3. In the same food processor, combine pitted dates, peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Process for 30-45 seconds until smooth and sticky.
  4. Add the oat flour and ground flaxseed to the food processor. Pulse until well combined. The dough should hold together when squeezed. If too dry, add 1 teaspoon water; if too wet, add 1 tablespoon oats.
  5. Transfer dough to a mixing bowl and fold in mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
  6. Optional: Chill dough in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes for easier handling.
  7. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop about 1 tablespoon (20-25g) of dough and roll into smooth balls. Repeat to make 16-18 balls.
  8. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each ball and press gently to adhere.
  9. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Transfer to an airtight container for storage.

Notes

For best texture, use natural peanut butter (just peanuts and salt). If dough is too sticky, wet hands lightly with water or rub with coconut oil before rolling. These taste even better the next day as flavors meld. Store in fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: protein balls, peanut butter, no-bake, healthy snack, high protein, energy balls, gluten-free option, vegan option