Sometimes, you just need a quick snack that keeps you full, tastes amazing, and doesn’t require turning on the oven. If you’re a serial snacker like me, you’ll definitely love this recipe!
These no-bake peanut butter oatmeal energy balls are chewy, nutty, and a little sweet. They’re the perfect grab-and-go snack for busy mornings, post-workout bites, or an afternoon energy boost.
They take only a few minutes to make, are endlessly customizable, and store beautifully for meal prep. Think of them as your healthier alternative to store-bought granola bars, but better because you control exactly what goes in.
What Kind of Oats to Use
I always go for rolled oats (also called old-fashioned oats). They give these energy balls the perfect chewy texture. Instant oats tend to make the mixture too soft, while steel-cut oats are too coarse and won’t stick together properly.
If you only have quick oats, you can still use them. Although you have to expect a slightly smoother and softer bite.
Tips for Prepping and Mixing
Here’s the trick I’ve learned after making these countless times: warm the peanut butter slightly before mixing. It makes the texture smoother and helps bind everything evenly.
If the mixture feels too dry, I add a tablespoon of honey or a splash of milk to help it come together. If it’s too sticky, I toss in a few extra oats until it’s easy to roll.
When shaping the balls, slightly wet your hands as it prevents sticking and helps you form clean, even spheres. I usually make about 12 to 14 small balls per batch.
Recipe Variations and Add-Ons
This is where the fun comes in. You can easily switch things up depending on your taste or what’s in your pantry. If you’re allergic to peanuts, swap peanut butter for almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter.
Want more texture or flavor? Try adding mini chocolate chips, chia seeds, shredded coconut, or crushed nuts. You can even roll the finished balls in sprinkles or coconut flakes for extra crunch and color.
If you’re into dried fruits, you can also add dates or raisins. Not a fan of these, but hey, to each their own, right?
If you’d like to make them higher in protein, yes, you can absolutely add protein powder. Just replace a few tablespoons of oats with your favorite protein powder and adjust the honey or peanut butter if needed to maintain the right consistency.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
These peanut butter oatmeal balls are one of my favorite snacks to prep ahead. Once rolled, I place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to a week. They also freeze well, just thaw a few pieces overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before eating.
If you’re planning to store them for longer, layer them between parchment paper to keep them from sticking together. They hold their shape perfectly and taste even better the next day, once the flavors have melded.
No-Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Energy Balls
Image credit: @nourishedbynic
Ingredients
For the Oatmeal Base
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-Ons
- 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons shredded coconut
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
- 2 tablespoons crushed almonds or walnuts
Instructions
- Mix the base. In a large bowl, stir together oats, peanut butter, honey, vanilla, and salt until well combined. Warm the peanut butter slightly if it’s too thick.
- Add mix-ins. Fold in any desired add-ons such as chocolate chips, chia seeds, or coconut until evenly distributed. Adjust consistency by adding more oats if sticky or more honey if dry.
- Shape the balls. Scoop out a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball with slightly damp hands. Place on a parchment-lined tray.
- Chill and store. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to firm up. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Featured image credit: @clean_and_delicious
