No-Bake Chocolate Protein Balls are a fun way to satisfy your sweet cravings while sticking to healthy snacking goals. These easy energy bites are loaded with healthy fats, protein, and flavor - perfect for a post-workout refuel, quick breakfast, or perfect afternoon snack. If you’re always searching for high protein snacks, this one should top your list.

Made with wholesome, healthy ingredients like chocolate protein powder, nut butter, and oats, they’re a great example of homemade protein balls that don’t sacrifice taste. Plus, they’re quick to whip up using just one large bowl, no oven required. Whether you’re new to protein ball recipes or already love making protein bites, this one’s a keeper for the whole family.

Before you get started

Here’s your quick prep checklist to make sure your chocolate peanut butter protein balls come out just right:

Choose your favorite protein powder (like whey protein or plant-based protein powder)
Use a creamy natural peanut butter or almond butter for best texture
Make sure ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing
Measure your wet ingredients (almond milk, syrup, nut butter) first
Then prep your dry ingredients like oats and protein powder
Have mix-ins like flax seeds, ground flax seed, or dark chocolate chips ready if desired
Line a baking sheet or plate with parchment paper for chilling
Use a mini cookie scoop or small cookie scoop for uniform portions
Prep a freezer-safe container or freezer-safe bag for storage if you’re making them ahead for meal prep

Once you’re all set, these easy snack balls come together in just minutes.

What You Need To Make No-Bake Chocolate Protein Balls

You’ll find all the exact amounts and nutrition details in the recipe card below, but here’s what you’ll need to make these great recipe energy bites.

To make these no-bake protein bites, gather the following:

Chocolate protein powder (feel free to try unflavored protein powder or different protein powder varieties)
Nut butter (like almond butter, natural peanut butter, or sunflower butter)
A liquid sweetener (such as honey, maple syrup, agave syrup, or date syrup)
Almond milk or your preferred milk
Rolled oats (or swap in oat flour or almond flour for a smoother texture)
Optional coatings: shredded coconut, cacao powder, or unsweetened cocoa powder

Mix and match for different flavors or to experiment with your favorite brands and variations of energy bite recipes.

How To Make No-Bake Chocolate Protein Balls

Step 1: Mix

In a large bowl, mix together your wet ingredients: nut butter, sweetener, and almond milk. Then add in your dry ingredients: protein powder and rolled oats. Stir until a thick, sticky dough forms. This step can also be done in a food processor if you prefer a smoother, cookie dough-like texture.

Step 2: (Optional: add mix-ins)

Optional add-ins like flax seeds, medjool dates, or dark chocolate chips can be stirred in at this point for extra nutrients and texture. If the dough feels too wet, add more oats. If it’s too dry, a splash more almond milk helps.

Step 3: Roll

Use a mini cookie scoop to portion out your protein balls. Roll them by hand and then coat in shredded coconut, cacao powder, or any topping you like.

Step 4: Chill

Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Store them in a freezer-safe container for grab-and-go snacks all week long.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of protein powder works best?

Whey, plant-based protein powder, or pea protein all work. Choose based on your dietary needs and flavor preference.

Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, try agave syrup, date syrup, or even blended medjool dates for natural sweetness with no added sugar.

Can I freeze these?

Absolutely. Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They thaw quickly and make perfect grab-and-go easy snack options.

Can I bake protein balls?

This recipe is designed as no-bake, but if you’re looking for a bake recipe, check out other bake protein balls or bake energy bites for a warm alternative.

Are these good for kids?

Yes, they’re made with clean, whole ingredients and are a great option for school snacks or after-school brownie bites.