No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (2024)

No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (1)

Jamielyn Nye
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This no-bake energy balls recipe is the perfect breakfast or portable snack loaded with good for you ingredients. Made in one bowl in only 5 minutes with 5 ingredients!

Other energy balls we love for quick bites include chocolate peanut butter protein balls, and almond joy no-bake energy bites.

No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (2)

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Table of Contents

  • No Bake Energy Bites
  • Why You’ll Love These Energy Balls
  • Ingredients
  • Substitutions and Variations
  • How to Make Energy Balls
  • Expert Tips
  • 5 star review
  • Recipe FAQs
  • More Healthy Snack Recipes
  • Energy Balls Recipe Printable Recipe

No Bake Energy Bites

We love to make energy and protein balls for quick grab-and-go snacks. This energy balls recipe is one of our favorites, as well as these Kodiak cakes protein balls and lemon coconut energy balls.

I’m always on the lookout for healthy snacks, and these 5 ingredient protein balls seem to be my go-to when I’m craving something sweet. Not only are they absolutely delicious, but they’re also a great source of protein.

Why You’ll Love These Energy Balls

  • Quick boost of energy: Made with simple wholesome ingredients, these balls are a cross between granola bars and cookie dough.
  • Family friendly: My husband and kids love these 5-ingredient protein balls for healthy on-the-go snacks.
  • Make ahead: Make these oatmeal energy bites at the beginning of the week and store in the fridge or freezer.

Ingredients

I like to start with these 5 pantry ingredients below when making energy balls. The best part is you probably already have them on hand!

No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (3)

Find the fullprintable recipewith specific measurements below.

  • Old-fashioned oats: These are dry oats that are flavorless with a thick texture to them. They are also known as rolled oats. Use gluten-free oats if needed.
  • Peanut butter: Binds all the ingredients together and adds flavor!
  • Honey: Gives the energy balls a natural sweetness.
  • Flax seed: This is a hidden ingredient that helps add healthiness but doesn’t have much flavor.
  • Chocolate chips: Always a favorite to add into energy bites for a hint of chocolate!

Substitutions and Variations

There are plenty of ways to customize these no bake energy balls. Grab a bowl and start adding in your favorite variations!

  • Add in an additional scoop of protein powder or collagen for extra protein.
  • Add a Tablespoon or two of chia seeds for a boost in antioxidants.
  • Mix in 1/4 cup coconut and 1/4 cup dried cranberries in place of the chocolate chips.
  • Use half chocolate chips and half mini M&M’s like I did when making these monster energy balls.
  • Add in your favorite seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
  • Replace the peanut butter with almond butter, nut butter, sunflower seed butter, or cashew butter.
  • Replace the oats with Kodiak power cakes mix.
  • Omit the flaxseed and chocolate chips for 3 Ingredient peanut butter oatmeal balls.

How to Make Energy Balls

These energy balls are a quick and easy snack that are made with natural ingredients, healthy fats and loved ball all!

No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (4)
  1. Mix. In a large mixing bowl combine all ingredients together, roll into balls, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  2. Freeze. Place baking sheet in the freezer until energy balls are hard so that they hold their shape.
  3. Store. Store in a zip-top bag or airtight container.

Expert Tips

  • Chill dough before rolling. If time permits, chilling your dough before rolling into balls makes it less sticky! Wetting your hands also helps.
  • Use a cookie dough scoop. This will help form evenly shaped balls. It’s also faster to form the bites this way!
  • Too dry. The mixture should be slightly sticky. If it’s too dry, add more honey or peanut butter. If it’s too wet, add more oats.
No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (5)

5 star review

“We love these energy balls. Perfect size to quench that sweet craving. Lots of great ingredients. Thanks for recipe. Also my grand girls love them too and they have no idea it’s healthy. Yeah!!”

-Fran

Recipe FAQs

Are energy balls good for you?

Yes! Energy balls are protein-packed and healthy to eat. They are high in fats and fiber making them a go-to snack!

Do protein balls give you energy?

For sure! These little bite-sized energy balls do just that! Give you energy! They are supplied with a bunch of good fats and energy to help you keep going throughout the day.

Can I substitute flax seeds?

Yes, try hemp seeds or chia seeds. You could even just add more oats or unsweetened shredded coconut.

What can I use instead of honey?

Pure maple syrup can be used instead of honey to make vegan energy bites. I do think that honey binds a bit better. If you mixture seems dry you may need to add water.

How to store energy bites?

You can either place them in a zip-top bag or an airtight container. If storing in a bag, I like to freeze them a little longer initially so they retain their shape when placed in the bag.

If storing at room temperature, store them in an airtight container so that the balls don’t touch or stick together. They will keep for about 1 week at room temperature or around 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze energy balls?

I actually prefer mine frozen. It helps them to keep their shape, plus it’s perfect for an easy grab-and-go snack. Simply add to a zip-top bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (6)

More homemade healthy snacks include healthy oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, 3 Ingredient peanut butter cookies and berry protein smoothie.

More Healthy Snack Recipes

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No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (11)

Energy Balls Recipe

5 from 76 votes

↑ Click stars to rate now!

Author: Jamielyn Nye

No-bake energy balls recipe is the perfect breakfast or portable snack made in one bowl in only 5 minutes with 5 ingredients!

Prep Time: 5 minutes mins

Freeze: 5 minutes mins

Total Time: 10 minutes mins

Servings: 30

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Video

Ingredients

Optional add in's: splash of vanilla, pinch of salt, pinch of cinnamon, ground flax seed, chia seeds, protein powder, rice krispies, coconut

    Instructions

    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Combine the old-fashioned oats, peanut butter, honey, and chocolate chips. I like to add a splash of vanilla and a pinch of sea salt too. Add in any other desired mix-ins. Stir until combined.

    • Use a small cookie scoop or Tablespoon and round them into balls. Place pan in the refrigerator or freezer until hard. Then store in a zip-top bag or covered container for up to 2 weeks in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.

    Notes

    Note: If you add extra ingredients and the mixture feels too dry, add a little more peanut butter and honey.

    If it feels too sticky, add a Tablespoon or two more of oats or protein powder.

    Variation: Recently I’ve been doing 1/2 cup oats and 1/2 cup kodiak cakes.

    Recipe change: I have changed the recipe slightly over the years. Here is the original ingredients. Follow the same instructions:

    • 1 cup old fashioned oats
    • 2/3 cup creamy peanut butter
    • 1/4 cup honey
    • 1/4 cup ground flax seed
    • 1/4- 1/2 cup dark or semi sweet chocolate chips

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1ball | Calories: 75kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 6mg | Sodium: 47mg | Potassium: 79mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 1mg

    Nutrition provided is an estimate. It will vary based on specific ingredients used.

    Course: Snack

    Cuisine: American

    Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to give it a star rating below!

    No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (12)

    Categorized as: American, Breakfast, Energy Balls + Bars, Freezer-Friendly, Meal Prep, Snacks, Vegetarian

    No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (13)

    Jamielyn Nye is the founder and recipe creator at I Heart Naptime. She is also the author of the I Heart Naptime Cookbook. Here you will find easy family-friendly recipes for every occasion.

    More about Jamielyn Nye

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    Add a comment

    94 comments

      • Kristyn
      • No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (18)

      We love energy balls at our house!! They are great for on the go or snacking. I like to make a bunch, then freeze some.

      • Reply
      • Jessica
      • No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (19)

      We absolutely love making these so the kids can snack on them instead of choosing something else out of the pantry that we may not want them to have!

      • Reply
      • Wanda T
      • No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (20)

      Our new favorite snack! I make a double batch and sometimes my kids take them for breakfast on the go!

      • Reply
      • Amanda

      Could you add in collagen as well?

      • Reply
        • I Heart Naptime Community

        Hi Amanda! I haven’t tested the recipe using collagen, but if you try it, let me know how it is :)

        • Reply
      • Linda

      I do not have flax seed in my pantry, can I use sesame seed or sunflower seed? Thanks for all the great recipes. Happy New Year!

      • Reply
        • I Heart Naptime Community

        Hi Linda! I have not tested the recipe using sesame or sunflower seeds, but if you try it, let me know what you think :)

        • Reply
      • Linda
      • No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (21)

      I am making them a second time very good!

      • Reply
        • I Heart Naptime

        Yay! Love to hear you are making these energy balls twice. Hopefully more times to come!

        • Reply
      • Mary
      • No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (22)

      Yes, very tasty! I would make it again.👍

      • Reply
      • Alaina
      • No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (23)

      Easy and so so good! My kids grab them for snacks after school.

      • Reply
      • Lore
      • No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (24)

      Very yùmmy!

      • Reply
        • Jamielyn Nye

        So glad you enjoyed the energy balls :)

        • Reply
      • Rachelle
      • No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (25)

      First time making this recipe & I love it! It’ll be on repeat for good snacks 🥰

      • Reply
      • Fran
      • No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (26)

      We love these energy balls. Perfect size to quench that sweet craving. Lots of great ingredients. Thanks for recipe. Also my grand girls love them too and they have no idea it’s healthy. Yeah!!

      • Reply
        • Jamielyn Nye

        So glad to hear! Thanks for your review Fran! :)

        • Reply
      • William Bilski

      Can these be frozen and for how long?

      • Reply
        • I Heart Naptime

        Yes, definitely! For up to 3 months :)

        • Reply
      • Kathy Ness
      • No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (27)

      I love this recipe. Make these almost every week!!

      • Reply
        • I Heart Naptime

        So happy to hear that! Thanks for your comment, Kathy :)

        • Reply
      • Suzanne Reising

      How many No Bake Energy Balls does the recipe make and how many calories per ball?

      • Reply
        • I Heart Naptime

        This recipe makes around 30 energy balls (the size of a small cookie scoop or Tablespoon). One ball is about 75 calories. You can find the full nutritional information in the “nutrition” section of the recipe card.

        • Reply
      • Ashley
      • No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (28)

      These are super delish, I have been looking for a simple no bake treat. I had all ingredients on hand, I also added a little bit of coconut flakes. Going to be my go to recipe!

      • Reply
        • I Heart Naptime

        Yum, coconut flakes sound like a delicious addition!

        • Reply
      • Breanne Moore
      • No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (29)

      These protein bites are my favorite! I make them all the time!

      • Reply
      • Jan

      Is it safe to eat uncooked old fashioned oats?

      • Reply
        • Jamielyn Nye

        I’ve heard flour could be potential unsafe to eat, but I have not hear the same about oats.

        • Reply
      • TD
      • No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (30)

      Excellent! I added coconut-delicious.

      • Reply

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    No-Bake Energy Balls Recipe (5 Ingredients!) - I Heart Naptime (2024)

    FAQs

    How many energy balls can you eat a day? ›

    These 4-ingredient protein balls have about 128 calories so you should only eat 2 of these as part of a healthy amount of calories and fat. Keep in mind that you need to consider all the foods consumed in a day and keep it within the acceptable range for your height and weight.

    How much sugar is in energy balls? ›

    Nutrition Facts (per serving)
    Nutrition Facts
    Servings Per Recipe 17
    Total Carbohydrate 18g7%
    Dietary Fiber 2g8%
    Total Sugars 10g
    14 more rows
    Jun 17, 2024

    What are energy balls made of? ›

    Sticky, sweet, and studded with chocolate chips, they taste like little balls of cookie dough, but they're made with simple, wholesome ingredients. Dates bind them together, oats add fiber, and walnuts and almond butter pack them with protein and healthy fats.

    How to store energy ball? ›

    Store leftover energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To Freeze. Energy balls can save in freezer for up to 3 months in freezer-safe airtight container. Ziplock bags work great for this.

    Can you eat too many protein balls? ›

    It's best not to go overboard eating too many in one sitting! Protein balls make a stellar high protein snack, but they shouldn't replace full meals. As a guideline, two Peanut Butter Cacao Protein Balls make a serving and can be eaten once or twice per day to give you an energy boost without going over the top.

    Why are energy balls healthy? ›

    THEY'RE HIGH IN PROTEIN

    Protein balls, as their name suggests, are a great source of protein. With the inclusion of protein powder plus other protein-rich ingredients such as nut butters, nuts, seeds and a variety of other ingredients, protein balls make for a great protein-packed snack and delicious treat.

    Are protein balls healthy? ›

    Protein balls (or bliss balls, if you prefer) are great on-the-go snack if you're trying to eat healthily or looking to lose weight. Filled with fiber-rich and protein-packed ingredients like oats, dates and nuts, they'll keep you fuller for longer – plus you don't need protein powder to make them.

    Can I snack on peanut butter? ›

    Peanut butter is one of the best sources of protein that you can use to make healthy snacks. With around 25 grams of protein in every serving, peanut butter snacks are both tasty and nutritious. Peanut butter is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to create a wide range of snacks for the entire family.

    Do protein balls need to be refrigerated? ›

    TO STORE: Refrigerate protein balls for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container. TO FREEZE: Freeze protein balls for up to 3 months or longer (if they are airtight, you can freeze them practically indefinitely). Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature if you are in a hurry.

    Does peanut butter give you energy? ›

    Peanut Butter: High in Good Fats, Protein, and Satisfaction

    Although peanut butter is a calorie-dense food, a little goes a long way in providing a great-tasting energy boost. Its healthy fats, protein, and fiber help stave off hunger and keep blood sugar levels stable.

    Why are they called energy balls? ›

    These balls are a simple no-bake, quick-to-make way to pack a ton of fueling power into a portable, easy-to-eat snack. I guess that's why they're called energy balls. And why nearly every single health-inspired blog out there has a version of these.

    Do Energy Balls go bad? ›

    For the Energy Balls to keep its flavor and not go bad, it's best to store them in an airtight container and leave them refrigerated for 1 to 2 weeks. You can eat them cold right out of the fridge or let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour.

    What is a substitute for coconut oil in protein balls? ›

    If you want bliss balls without coconut oil, nut butter is a good substitute in this recipe. You could also replace coconut oil with another healthy oil or omit the oil altogether from the recipe. If the mixture is a little dry, add a tiny bit of the soaking water from the prunes.

    How many red balls can you have in a day? ›

    There is no restriction on the number of cans that can be consumed per day.

    How many energy drinks can you have a day? ›

    The recommended daily limit for caffeine is 400 milligrams per day, which is equivalent to about 4 cups of coffee. Many energy drinks meet this amount and you might exceed it if you have more than one drink each day.

    How many energy can you have in a day? ›

    If you decide to consume energy drinks, limit them to no more than 16 ounces (473 ml) of a standard energy drink per day and try to limit all other caffeinated beverages to avoid excessive intake of caffeine.

    How many energy bars can you eat in a day? ›

    Generally speaking, it is recommended that an individual consumes one to two protein bars a day to meet their nutritional goals. For individuals looking to gain muscle, consuming 2-3 protein bars a day can be beneficial since muscle-building requires more protein than fat loss.

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