Peanut Butter Energy Balls
- By Amy Dong
- Updated Jan. 29, 2026
I started making these peanut butter energy balls back when my kids were young and I wanted healthy snacks with almost no effort. To this day, these disappear fast in our home.
In This Article
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Amy’s Notes
I make these Peanut Butter Energy Balls all the time because they’re a quick, wholesome snack that taste delicious:
- Naturally Energizing:These bites are packed with oats, flaxseed, and chia seeds for steady energy that lasts, just like these Oatmeal Energy Balls.
- Simple to Make: No oven, no fuss – just mix, chill, and roll.
- Perfect Texture: The combination of creamy peanut butter, chewy oats, and a touch of toasted coconut gives these the perfect texture
- Naturally Sweet: Honey brings just the right amount of sweetness without being over the top.
- Easy to Customize: You can swap in almond butter, skip the chocolate chips, or even add pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist, like in these No Bake Pumpkin Energy Balls.
Key Recipe Ingredients
- Old-Fashioned Oats – The hearty base that gives these energy balls their chewy texture and lasting energy. Quick oats can work too, but old-fashioned oats hold up better.
- Coconut Flakes – Finely shredded and lightly toasted for a subtle crunch and nutty flavor. You can skip toasting if you prefer a softer texture.
- Creamy Peanut Butter – Holds everything together and adds rich, nutty flavor. Natural peanut butter works great, or try almond butter or sunbutter for a nut-free option.
- Ground Flaxseed – Adds fiber, healthy fats, and a mild nutty taste. It also helps the mixture bind together naturally.
- Chocolate Chips – Bring a touch of sweetness and texture. Mini chocolate chips mix in more evenly, but any kind works.
- Honey – Naturally sweetens and helps bind the ingredients. For a vegan version, use agave nectar or maple syrup instead.
- Chia Seeds – Add crunch, protein, and omega-3s. If you don’t have chia, poppy seeds make a good substitute.
Substitutions And Variations
Here are some of our favorite substitutions and variations:
- Nut Butter Options: I usually use creamy peanut butter, but almond butter or cashew butter work just as well. For a nut-free version, try sunbutter.
- Sweetener Swaps: You can replace honey with agave nectar or maple syrup if you want to keep it vegan. Adjust slightly if the mixture feels too sticky or dry.
- Add-Ins: I like to mix in chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or raisins for extra texture. You can also stir in a spoonful of protein powder for a more filling snack.
Step-By-Step Recipe Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. Chill for 30-60 minutes.
- Roll into balls and store airtight at room temperature or in the fridge.
For full list of ingredients and instructions, see recipe card below.
How To Prep Ahead
Take a look at our best prep-ahead strategies for this recipe:
- Make Entirely Ahead: These energy balls are make-ahead friendly! Once shaped, keep the energy balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freeze for Later: These freeze beautifully. Place them on a baking sheet to firm up, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Just thaw a few at a time in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for about 15 minutes before eating.
Peanut Butter Energy Balls
These Peanut Butter Energy Balls are chock full of healthy, natural ingredients that form a powerhouse of nutrition with every bite! They taste great and are perfect for lunch boxes, afternoon snacks, or breakfast. Go energize!
Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats, dry
- ⅔ cup coconut flakes, finely shredded style, lightly toasted
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup ground flaxseed
- ⅔ cup chocolate chips
- ⅓ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and mix well until fully incorporated. Cover and chill for 30 minutes to an hour.
- Roll into balls of your preferred size. If the mixture is too sticky, it helps to keep a bowl of water nearby to keep dipping your hands into. Wet palms will make the rolling a lot easier.
- Store in an airtight container. Will keep well at moderate room temp or in the fridge.
Notes
- Use old-fashioned oats for the best texture. Quick oats can make the mixture too soft, while old-fashioned oats keep it chewy and satisfying.
- Lightly toast the coconut flakes before mixing. It adds a warm, nutty flavor that makes a big difference. You can do that by stirring coconut flakes in a nonstick pan over medium high heat until lightly toasted and fragrant.
- Mix the ingredients well. Make sure the peanut butter and honey are evenly distributed so every bite holds together.
- Chill before rolling. The mixture firms up in the fridge, making it easier to shape without sticking to your hands.
- Keep a small bowl of water nearby. Wetting your palms helps prevent the mixture from sticking while rolling.
- Adjust consistency if needed. If it feels too dry, add a drizzle of honey or a spoonful of peanut butter. If it’s too sticky, mix in a few extra oats.
- Use mini chocolate chips. They blend more evenly and make rolling smoother.
- Store in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
- Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating. This softens the texture and brings out the flavor.
- Double the batch. These freeze well and are perfect for meal prep or quick snacks throughout the week.
- This recipe is part of our 10 Ingredients or Less Recipes Collection.
Nutrition (per serving)
Serving: 1g | Calories: 126kcal | Carbohydrates: 13.3g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 7.5g | Saturated Fat: 2.9g | Sodium: 24.9mg | Fiber: 2.6g | Sugar: 8.2g
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my mixture feels too dry or crumbly?
If the mixture isn’t sticking, add a small drizzle of honey or a teaspoon of water at a time until it comes together. The texture should be slightly sticky but easy to roll.
Can I skip the coconut flakes?
You can. The coconut adds a nice texture and flavor, but the recipe still works without it. Try adding a few extra oats or chocolate chips to keep the balance right.
Are these energy balls good for kids?
Definitely. They’re made with simple, wholesome ingredients and make a great lunch box snack or after-school treat. If you’re packing them for school, use a nut-free butter like sunbutter.
How long do they keep?
Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before eating.
More to Cook and Eat
- Crunchy Granola Recipe – This Crunchy Granola Recipe is super easy, budget-friendly, and makes perfectly crispy granola that’s better than store-bought any day!
- No-Bake Oatmeal Protein Bars – These No-Bake Oatmeal Protein Bars won’t break your wallet like store bought bars can. These chewy soft bars taste superb. They pack a powerful punch of energy for your day.
- 5-Ingredient Protein Bars – For deliciously nutritious energy on the run, grab your own homemade Protein Bars! These couldn’t be easier to make and are much more affordable than store-bought bars.
- Chia Seed Pudding with Yogurt – This Chia Seed Pudding is healthy and satisfies your sweet tooth. It’s the perfect treat for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert. Use your favorite toppings.