Quick Peanut Butter Energy Balls: Easy Snacking Bliss (Print Version)

Whip up Quick Peanut Butter Energy Balls for healthy, satisfying snacks. Simple ingredients, no baking, perfect for busy days. My go-to recipe!

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 0 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 12 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free (use certified oats)

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 1 cup (90g) rolled oats
02 - 1/2 cup (128g) natural creamy peanut butter
03 - 1/3 cup (80ml) honey or maple syrup

→ Flavor Boosters & Nutrients

04 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
05 - 2 tbsp chia seeds
06 - 2 tbsp ground flaxseed meal

→ Optional Mix-ins

07 - 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
08 - Pinch of flaky sea salt (for flavor enhancement)

→ Finishing Touch

09 - 1/4 cup shredded coconut (for rolling)

# Instructions:

01 - In a medium bowl, gather your rolled oats, chia seeds, and ground flaxseed meal. Give them a good stir with a spoon or spatula. I always make sure everything's evenly mixed here, because nobody wants a clump of just flaxseed in their bite, right? It just sets the stage for our delicious Quick Peanut Butter Energy Balls.
02 - Now, in a separate, smaller bowl, measure out your natural peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Whisk them together until they're smooth and well combined. This is where the magic starts to happen, you'll feel the stickiness building, and honestly, the smell is already divine! Don't worry if it's super thick, that's what we want.
03 - Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry oat mixture. Now, get ready to get your hands dirty, or use a sturdy spatula. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined and a sticky dough forms. I usually start with a spoon, then switch to my hands because it's just easier to get all those dry bits incorporated. It might seem a little crumbly at first, but keep pressing and mixing!
04 - If you're adding mini chocolate chips, now's the time! Gently fold them into the mixture. You want them distributed evenly throughout your Quick Peanut Butter Energy Balls. I’ve definitely overmixed before and ended up with crushed chips, so be gentle! This step makes these little treats extra special.
05 - Scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms into a ball. They should be firm enough to hold their shape, but still a little soft. If they're too sticky, pop the mixture in the fridge for 10-15 minutes. I once rolled them way too big, and they were like jawbreakers, so stick to about an inch!
06 - If you're using shredded coconut, spread it out on a shallow plate. Roll each peanut butter energy ball in the coconut, pressing gently to coat it evenly. This adds a lovely texture and looks so pretty! I sometimes skip this when I'm in a rush, but it definitely elevates the snack.
07 - Place the finished Quick Peanut Butter Energy Balls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop them into the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This step is crucial, trust me! They'll be much easier to handle and taste even better chilled.

# Notes:

01 - When mixing, don't be afraid to get your hands in there! It’s the best way to ensure everything is evenly combined, especially with the sticky peanut butter.
02 - Always store these in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last longer and keep that lovely chewy texture.
03 - If you're out of chia seeds, ground pumpkin seeds can work in a pinch for texture, though they won't absorb as much moisture.
04 - A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before chilling really enhances the peanut butter flavor and cuts through the sweetness.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Mixing bowls
02 - measuring cups and spoons
03 - spatula
04 - baking sheet
05 - parchment paper
06 - airtight container

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 150 kcal
Total Fat: 9g
Total Carbohydrate: 15g
Protein: 5g