Chocolate Energy Balls are chocolatey and packed with flavor, but still come together fast with simple ingredients. These are the kind of snack I keep in the fridge all week.
author’s note
The Snack My Neighbor Couldn’t Stop Talking About!!
A few weeks ago, I brought dinner to a neighbor after she had a baby. I put together a full spread, Olive Garden fettuccine alfredo, Italian salad, a fruit salad, and some chewy chocolate chip cookies. That’s what I thought she’d be excited about.
But the one thing she couldn’t stop talking about? The little energy balls I tucked in just for her.
It made me laugh, but also reminded me how much I relied on these after having babies. I used to batch prep oatmeal energy bites and keep them in the fridge at all times. They were a lifesaver when I needed something quick I could grab with one hand.
I’ve made so many versions over the years, but somehow never shared this chocolate one. After she asked for the recipe and I made a few more batches, I knew it was time.
These Chocolate Protein Balls are not just great for new moms, they’re perfect for kids, busy days, or anytime you need something quick, filling, and actually delicious.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Swap or Tip |
|---|---|
| Peanut Butter | Use creamy, all-natural. Almond butter also works |
| Honey | Maple syrup works, but the chocolate energy balls will be slightly softer |
| Dutch-Process Cocoa | Use Dutch-process, not regular cocoa, for best flavor |
| Chocolate Protein Powder | Any chocolate whey works. Choose low-sugar if possible. Here’s my favorite. Use extras in this chocolate protein shake. |
| Old-Fashioned Oats | Do not use quick or steel-cut oats |
| Dark Chocolate | Milk or semi-sweet chips also work |
Featured Comment
“I love these! I make large batches and store them in the freezer. My toddler loves them as well. We take them on vacations, road trips, everywhere. One of my go to snacks. Easy to make and so delicious. Taste like a Reese’s to me… but healthy.”
– Taylor
How To Make Chocolate Energy Balls
- Chop the chocolate into small pieces.
- Mix everything in one bowl using a hand mixer until thick and fully combined.
- Scoop and roll into small balls.
- Freeze briefly until firm, then enjoy.
chelsea’s recipe tip
My Top Chocolate Energy Balls Tips
- Beat the mixture with a hand mixer; it’s thick and sticky.
- Allow time for the oats to absorb the liquid: At first, these bites may seem too wet, but after they sit for a bit, they firm up as the oats absorb the wet ingredients.
- Use a cookie scoop. Scoop and drop instead of rolling.
Storage
- Fridge: Store chocolate energy balls in an airtight container for 1 to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. I keep a bag in the freezer and grab one whenever I want something sweet and filling. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before eating.
More Poppable Snacks You’ll Love:
Chocolate Energy Bites
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips coarsely chopped
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dutch process cocoa powder see note 1
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 5 tablespoons chocolate protein powder
- 1-1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Coarsely chop the chocolate into small pieces.
- In a large bowl, add the chopped chocolate, creamy peanut butter, honey, cocoa powder, sea salt, chocolate protein powder, old-fashioned oats, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer, beat until the mixture is well combined.
- Using a cookie scoop or 1-tablespoon measuring spoon, scoop even-sized amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Place on a parchment paper lined plate and freeze for 15 minutes before eating.
Recipe Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Great dinner especially for a meal train.
Yes, I love it! Thanks Lynda!
I love these! I make large batches and store them in the freezer. My toddler loves them as well. We take them on vacations, road trips, everywhere. One of my go to snacks. Easy to make and so delicious. Taste like a Reese’s to me… but healthy 😀
Yay! I’m so thrilled to hear this! Thanks Taylor!
I made this today and it was awesome! Just as good as a no bake cookie, maybe better! I swapped honey for agave nectar and it was great.
YAY! What a compliment! So thrilled you enjoyed this! Thanks Julie! 🙂
sounds great, not good for low carb diet.
This is a fresh new idea I haven’t yet seen. Looking forward to trying it out!
What a wonderful Idea
I’m sure kids would love these 🙂
I love this idea.