Peanut Butter Oatmeal Balls – Easy No-Bake Healthy Snack
Energy-packed, sweet yet wholesome, Peanut Butter Oatmeal Balls are the ultimate grab-and-go snack for busy mornings, afternoon cravings, or post-workout fuel. Combining the creamy richness of peanut butter with hearty oats, these no-bake treats deliver a satisfying chewiness with every bite. Their natural sweetness, often enhanced with honey or maple syrup, makes them a guilt-free indulgence that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Oats provide slow-digesting carbohydrates and fiber, giving sustained energy, while peanut butter adds protein and heart-healthy fats. Together, they create a snack that is both nourishing and delicious. These bite-sized balls are perfect for meal prepping, tossing in lunchboxes, or keeping at your desk for a quick energy boost.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a detailed ingredient list with approximate calorie counts for reference:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Rolled oats | 2 cups (160g) | 607 kcal |
| Peanut butter (creamy or crunchy) | 1 cup (250g) | 1,470 kcal |
| Honey or maple syrup | ¼ cup (85g) | 257 kcal |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | 12 kcal |
| Mini chocolate chips (optional) | ½ cup (90g) | 430 kcal |
| Chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional) | 2 tbsp (20g) | 98 kcal |
| Salt | ¼ tsp | 0 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare Ingredients
Measure out oats, peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and optional ingredients like chocolate chips or seeds.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well incorporated.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
Add oats, salt, and optional seeds or chocolate chips to the peanut butter mixture. Stir until evenly combined. The mixture should be thick but pliable.
4. Form Balls
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1–1.5 inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
5. Chill
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the balls to firm up.
6. Store
Once chilled, transfer the peanut butter oatmeal balls to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or frozen for up to 1 month.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Nut-Free Option: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or almond butter.
- Add Extra Protein: Mix in a scoop of protein powder for a post-workout boost.
- Flavor Variations: Add cinnamon, cocoa powder, or a pinch of sea salt to enhance flavor.
- Mix-Ins: Dried cranberries, raisins, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts can add texture and flavor.
- Sweetness Control: Adjust honey or syrup to taste, or substitute with a low-calorie sweetener.
- Chocolate Lovers: Dip finished balls in melted dark chocolate and refrigerate for a decadent twist.
Nutritional Information (Per 1 Ball – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 144 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 g |
| Sodium | 35 mg |
| Sugars | 7 g |
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Balls provide a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and slow-digesting carbs, making them ideal for energy boosts and healthy snacking.
Serving Suggestions
- Pack 1–2 balls in lunchboxes for kids or adults.
- Serve alongside a smoothie for a complete breakfast.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon pick-me-up.
- Add to a snack tray with fresh fruit and nuts for parties or gatherings.
- Freeze a batch and thaw a few at a time for a convenient on-the-go snack.
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Balls
20 balls
servings10
minutes00
minutes144
kcalIngredients
2 cups (160g) rolled oats
1 cup (250g) peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
¼ cup (85g) honey or maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup (90g) mini chocolate chips (optional)
2 tbsp (20g) chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional)
¼ tsp salt
Directions
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, combine peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in oats, salt, and optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or seeds until well combined.
- Form Balls: Roll mixture into 1–1.5 inch balls using hands or a cookie scoop. Place on a parchment-lined tray.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Store: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 1 month.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Mix Consistency: The mixture should be thick and sticky enough to hold together. If it feels too dry, add a little more peanut butter or honey; if too wet, add extra oats.
Size Matters: Rolling balls about 1–1.5 inches in diameter works best for portion control and ensures they hold their shape.
FAQs
1. Can I make Peanut Butter Oatmeal Balls ahead of time?
Yes! These energy balls can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 1 month and thaw as needed.
2. Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Absolutely. Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter work well as substitutes, giving a slightly different flavor but similar texture.
3. Are Peanut Butter Oatmeal Balls healthy?
Yes. They combine oats, peanut butter, and optional seeds or nuts to provide protein, fiber, healthy fats, and slow-digesting carbohydrates—making them a nutritious snack or breakfast option.
4. Can I make them vegan or dairy-free?
Yes. Use maple syrup or agave instead of honey to make the recipe vegan. All other ingredients are naturally plant-based.
5. How can I make these balls sweeter?
Increase the honey or maple syrup slightly, or add mini chocolate chips, dried fruit, or a drizzle of melted chocolate after forming the balls.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Balls are a simple, wholesome, and versatile snack that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings. With minimal ingredients and no baking required, they’re perfect for busy lifestyles while still providing balanced nutrition. Customizable, portable, and delicious, these bite-sized treats are perfect for breakfast, snack time, or post-workout fuel.
