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Healthy No-Bake Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls

no-bake dark chocolate peanut butter protein balls - featured image
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These no-bake protein balls are quick, easy, and packed with wholesome ingredients like peanut butter, oats, and dark chocolate for a delicious and nutritious snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup natural creamy peanut butter (240 ml)
  • 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (90 g)
  • 1/4 cup dark cocoa powder (25 g), unsweetened
  • 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder (50 g), plant-based or whey
  • 2 tbsp chia seeds (20 g), optional
  • 3 tbsp honey or maple syrup (60 ml)
  • 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips (40 g), optional
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • 1–2 tbsp water (15–30 ml), as needed

Instructions

  1. Gather your ingredients. Measure everything carefully. Having your peanut butter at room temperature helps it mix easier. (5 minutes)
  2. Mix dry ingredients. In your mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, dark cocoa powder, vanilla protein powder, chia seeds, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir gently to distribute evenly. (3 minutes)
  3. Add wet ingredients. Pour in the peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup). Use a spatula to fold the mixture together. It will be thick and sticky. If it feels too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time until it just holds together. (5 minutes)
  4. Fold in chocolate chips. Stir in mini dark chocolate chips for melty pockets of chocolate. (1 minute)
  5. Form the balls. Using your hands, scoop about a tablespoon (15 g) of the mixture and roll it into a tight ball. Place each on the lined baking sheet. (10 minutes)
  6. Chill. Refrigerate the balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This step is important; otherwise, they might crumble when you bite in. (30 minutes)
  7. Store and enjoy. Transfer the chilled balls to an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to a week or freeze for longer storage. (2 minutes)

Notes

Use creamy natural peanut butter without added oils or sugars for best texture. If mixture is crumbly, add more peanut butter or a splash of water. Slightly damp hands help prevent sticking when rolling balls. Chilling is essential to firm the balls and prevent crumbling. For nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter. Use certified gluten-free oats for gluten-free diet. Optional add-ins include cinnamon, cayenne, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, pumpkin puree, or dried fruit for flavor variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake, protein balls, healthy snack, peanut butter, dark chocolate, easy snack, homemade, quick snack, post-workout

Find it online: https://twirltaste.com/healthy-no-bake-dark-chocolate-peanut-butter-protein-balls-recipe-easy-homemade-snack-ideas/