These no bake oat energy balls are the ultimate snack food. They’re made from healthy ingredients but still taste like an indulgent treat!
These oat energy balls have been one of my go to snacks to keep in the refrigerator. The flavor is amazing, especially if you’re a chocolate peanut butter lover like me. Best of all, they satisfy my sweet tooth craving, especially when I want something sweet in the evening.
With simple ingredients you most likely already have in your pantry, these energy balls only take minutes to throw together. You don’t need any fancy equipment to make these energy balls. Best of all, they require no baking or cooking!
These oat energy balls are made with wholesome ingredients and are packed with protein, fiber and healthy fats. All these nutrients help give you energy and keep you full in between meals. Also, there are no additives or preservatives so you can feel good about giving them to your children and eating them yourself.
No bake energy ball ingredients
- Oats– these will serve as the base ingredient for our energy bites. Oats are filling, inexpensive and easy to find. I use quick cooking oats because they are slightly smaller. You can use old fashioned oats but I find the balls don’t hold together as well. If you want to keep these balls gluten free be sure to purchase certified gluten free oats.
- Peanut Butter– helps bind the balls, adds healthy fats and some protein. Be sure when you are picking out peanut butter in the store that the ingredients listed are: peanuts, oil and maybe salt. If your peanut butter is a little too firm, microwave for several seconds to mix easier. Peanut butter can be swapped for another nut or seed butter.
- Maple syrup– adds the perfect amount of sweetness to these energy balls and also helps to bind them together. Honey can be used as a substitute.
- Ground Flax Seed – this provides a boost of fiber, omega-3s and vitamins
- Chia Seeds– rich in fiber, protein, omega 3s and antioxidants
- Vanilla Extract- for a touch of extra flavor
- Cinnamon– adds additional flavor and extra nutrients
- Chocolate Chips- I love using mini chocolate chips because they distribute the chocolate more evenly through each bite
How to store energy balls
You can store your energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last 1-2 weeks however I guarantee they won’t last more than a week!
Perfect snack to prep to have all week
With the approach of back to school (or some kids are already back) and our hectic lives, these energy bites are the perfect meal prep so you always have a healthy snack option readily available.
More healthy snack recipes
No Bake Oat Energy Balls
Ingredients
- 1 cup oats quick cooking
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2-3 Tablespoons mini chocolate chips
- ½ cup + 2 Tablespoons natural peanut butter *see notes before starting
- 3 Tablespoons pure maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons chia seeds
- 2 teaspoons ground flax seeds
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, add the oats, cinnamon, and chocolate chips and stir to combine.
- In a small bowl, add the peanut butter *(see notes below), maple syrup, vanilla extract, chia seeds and ground flax seeds. Stir until mixture is well combined.
- Add your peanut butter mixture (small bowl) to the dry ingredients (medium bowl ) and stir until thoroughly combined. Use the back of a spoon to press down as you mix to incorporate all the oats with the peanut butter mixture. This takes some muscle work because of the stickiness of the peanut butter, but I promise it will mix.
- Form the mixture into balls, approximately the same size. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Facts
What’s your favorite snack? Share in the comments below. If you make this recipe please share, I would love to hear what you think! Also, be sure to stay in touch and follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest