Easy No-Bake Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls Recipe with Chia Seeds for Perfect Healthy Snacks
These no-bake protein balls combine dark chocolate, peanut butter, and chia seeds for a quick, healthy, and delicious snack perfect for anytime energy boosts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (90g) rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons (20g) chia seeds
- 1/4 cup (25g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
- 1/2 cup (125g) natural peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting, optional)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
- 1 scoop protein powder (optional)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chia seeds, and dark chocolate chips. Stir to distribute evenly (about 2 minutes).
- Add peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix with a spatula until the mixture starts to come together and is sticky (3-4 minutes).
- Using clean hands, scoop about 1 tablespoon (15g) of the mixture and roll into tight balls. Place on a lined baking sheet or plate (5-7 minutes).
- Optionally, sprinkle or roll the balls in unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolatey finish.
- Chill the balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up and allow chia seeds to bind the mixture.
- Serve chilled or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
Use room temperature peanut butter for easier mixing. Keep hands slightly wet when rolling to prevent sticking. Adjust oats or peanut butter if mixture is too dry or wet. For vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup and use vegan dark chocolate. Certified gluten-free oats are required for gluten-free version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 protein ball (appr
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 50
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 1.5
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 4
Keywords: no-bake, protein balls, dark chocolate, peanut butter, chia seeds, healthy snacks, energy bites, vegan option, gluten-free