Introduction

Peanut Butter Balls are a delicious and wholesome no-bake energy snack that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and cocoa with the natural sweetness of dates. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick boost of energy and are entirely vegan and easy to make at home.

A white bowl filled with round, dark brown energy balls that have small white nut pieces visible inside; the balls are smooth and shiny, stacked closely together with one ball outside the bowl to the left. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a soft, light brown cloth draped casually around it. In the foreground, blurred dates lie on the cloth, and in the background, there are blurred jars and containers with light tones that complement the clean and simple setting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup smooth unsalted peanut butter (100% peanuts, no added oil)
1/2 cup roasted unsalted peanuts
1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
2 tablespoons cocoa powder

Instructions

Step 1: In a food processor, combine the Medjool dates and peanut butter until smooth and well blended.
Step 2: Add the roasted peanuts, rolled oats, and cocoa powder to the mixture. Pulse until all ingredients are evenly combined but still have texture.
Step 3: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls.
Step 4: Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 5: Enjoy your peanut butter balls as a wholesome snack or energy boost anytime during the day.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth, or add chopped nuts to the mixture.
If dates are too dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before blending to achieve a smoother texture.
Substitute cocoa powder with carob powder for a caffeine-free alternative.
Roll the finished balls in shredded coconut, chia seeds, or crushed nuts for added flavor and texture.

Storage

Store the peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months; thaw them in the fridge before eating. These bites are best enjoyed chilled but can be eaten at room temperature for a softer texture.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with smooth, round dark brown energy balls that have small white nut pieces mixed in, stacked in layers inside the bowl, with one ball resting outside on the white marbled surface to the left. The background includes blurred out jars and ingredients in soft neutral colors, and a soft peach cloth is partially spread beneath the bowl, adding a warm tone to the scene. Dates can be seen slightly out of focus in the front right corner on the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other nut butters instead of peanut butter?

Yes, almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter can be used as substitutes to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Are these peanut butter balls gluten-free?

They can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free rolled oats to avoid any gluten contamination.

Vegan Peanut Butter Energy Balls Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 94 reviews

These no-bake Peanut Butter Balls are a wholesome, vegan energy snack packed with natural sweetness and rich nutty flavors. Made with smooth peanut butter, roasted peanuts, Medjool dates, rolled oats, and cocoa powder, they provide a delicious combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats in every bite. Perfect for a quick energy boost or a healthy treat on the go.

Author: Nora
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 15–20 peanut butter balls 1x
Category: Snack
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale

Nut Base

1 cup smooth unsalted peanut butter (100% peanuts, no added oil)
1/2 cup roasted unsalted peanuts

Sweeteners

12 Medjool dates, pitted

Binders and Flavor

1 cup rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

Instructions

Prepare the Dates: Soak the pitted Medjool dates in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften them up, making them easier to blend and incorporate into the mixture.
Blend the Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the softened dates, smooth peanut butter, roasted peanuts, rolled oats, and cocoa powder. Pulse until the mixture forms a sticky, uniform dough that holds together when pressed.
Form the Balls: Using your hands, roll the dough into small bite-sized balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. This typically yields about 15-20 energy balls depending on size.
Chill: Place the peanut butter balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up and allow the flavors to meld.
Serve and Store: Enjoy these as a quick snack or energy boost. Store extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

You can substitute crunchy peanut butter for added texture if desired.
For gluten-free diets, ensure the rolled oats are certified gluten-free.
If dates are not soft enough, soak them a bit longer or use a high-powered blender to process smoothly.
Optional: Roll the balls in extra cocoa powder or crushed peanuts for added flavor and crunch.

Keywords: peanut butter balls, vegan energy bites, no-bake snacks, healthy peanut butter recipe, vegan protein balls