Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls (Printable version)
Creamy peanut butter and chocolate come together in these protein-packed energy balls made with oats and cocoa.
# Ingredient list:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
02 - 2 tablespoons chia seeds
03 - 1/4 cup chocolate protein powder
04 - 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
05 - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
→ Wet Ingredients
06 - 1/2 cup natural creamy peanut butter
07 - 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Mix-ins
09 - 1/3 cup mini dark chocolate chips
# Directions:
01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, chia seeds, protein powder, cocoa powder, and sea salt. Stir until thoroughly blended.
02 - Add the peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Mix thoroughly with a spatula or your hands until a consistent dough forms.
03 - Fold in the mini dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
04 - Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls, applying gentle pressure to ensure they hold their shape.
05 - Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined tray or plate, ensuring they are not touching each other.
06 - Refrigerate the protein balls for at least 30 minutes until firm and set.
07 - Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months for longer preservation.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- They taste like cookie dough but actually fuel you properly
- My toddler thinks they're treats and has no idea they're healthy
- The recipe doubles perfectly and keeps for weeks
02 -
- The dough should hold together when squeezed but still feel slightly sticky and soft
- If it's too dry, add another teaspoon of honey or peanut butter
- Letting them rest overnight in the fridge improves the texture significantly
03 -
- Warm the peanut butter slightly for easier mixing
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform balls that look professional