Pin These Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls are the ultimate no-bake solution for anyone craving a healthy treat that tastes like dessert. Combining the classic flavors of rich cocoa and creamy peanut butter with the heartiness of rolled oats, these energy-boosting snacks are perfect for fueling your day or satisfying a late-night chocolate craving.
Pin The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By mixing pantry staples with your favorite plant-based protein powder, you create a chewy, chocolatey dough that is as fun to make as it is to eat. Each bite is studded with vegan chocolate chips for a delightful texture that makes healthy snacking feel indulgent.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats (certified gluten-free, if needed)
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup vegan chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup plant-based protein powder (vanilla or chocolate flavor)
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, protein powder, and sea salt.
- Step 2
- In a separate bowl, stir together the peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Step 3
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly with a spatula or your hands until a dough forms.
- Step 4
- If the mixture is too dry, add a splash of non-dairy milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it holds together.
- Step 5
- Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll into a ball. Repeat with remaining dough.
- Step 6
- Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
- Step 7
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Consistency is key for the perfect protein ball. If your dough is too crumbly, don't hesitate to add a tiny splash of non-dairy milk to help it bind. Using a natural, drippy peanut butter will also make the mixing process much easier and ensure a smooth, cohesive dough.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily swap the peanut butter for almond or cashew butter if you prefer. To add an extra crunch, mix in two tablespoons of chopped nuts or seeds like chia or flax. For those who enjoy a sweeter snack, increase the amount of pure maple syrup to 1/3 cup.
Serviervorschläge
These protein balls are the perfect companion for a pre- or post-workout boost. They are best enjoyed chilled directly from the refrigerator, where they maintain their firm, chewy texture. They also make a fantastic addition to a lunchbox or a quick grab-and-go breakfast on busy mornings.
Pin With 110 calories and 4 grams of protein per ball, these treats provide a balanced nutritional profile that fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle. Store them in an airtight container for up to a week and enjoy a delicious, chocolatey energy boost whenever you need it most.
Recipe Q&A
- → How long do these keep fresh?
Store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months—just thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
- → Can I use a different nut butter?
Absolutely. Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter work well as substitutes. Just keep in mind that different nut butters may slightly alter the flavor and consistency.
- → What if my dough is too dry or sticky?
If the dough feels dry, add non-dairy milk one teaspoon at a time until it holds together. If it's too sticky, chill the mixture for 10 minutes before rolling, or add another tablespoon of oats.
- → Do I need to bake these?
No baking required. The balls set in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This makes them perfect for warm weather or when you don't want to turn on the oven.
- → Can I make these without protein powder?
Yes. Simply replace the protein powder with an additional 1/4 cup of rolled oats or ground flaxseed. The texture will remain similar, though the protein content per ball will be slightly lower.
- → Are these suitable for meal prep?
These are ideal for meal prep. Make a double batch on Sunday and portion them into containers for the week. They're perfect for breakfast, pre-workout fuel, or afternoon snacks.