Almond Butter Energy Balls

No-bake energy balls recipe made with almond butter and gluten-free oats. These almond butter energy balls are quick and easy to make, full of nutrients, high in protein, and a great snack on the go.

Energy balls are one of my go-to snacks to enjoy during the workweek. This easy snack recipe helps satisfy my craving for something sweet while also boosting protein, fiber, and energy throughout my day.

Energy Balls Recipe

Energy balls, also called energy bites or protein balls, make for a great healthy treat option. They are filled with healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, fiber and can be made gluten-free.

The best part is our kids also love snacking on energy balls. We typically make a big batch over the weekend then freeze them for the kids’ lunches. Sometimes if we’re short on time, we enjoy them as a quick breakfast on the go.

Ingredients in energy balls

• Oats. We use certified gluten-free old-fashioned oats.
• Nut butter. Peanut butter is commonly used to make energy balls, but I use almond butter for allergy reasons. The nut butter helps bind the ingredients together adds flavor and healthier fats for a snack option. If you’re allergic to peanut and almond butter, sunflower butter is a good alternative.
• Honey or maple syrup. The liquid sweetener also helps bind the ingredients together.
• Superfood mix-ins. Flax and chia seeds add nutrients like omega-3 fats, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Mix-ins. Chocolate chips, dried fruit, coconut flakes, and nuts are great additions to energy ball recipes.

Mix-ins for protein energy bites

• Superfood mix-ins: flaxseeds, chia seeds
• Chocolate chips
• Cocoa powder
• Dried fruit
• Shredded coconut
• M&M’s
• Protein powder
• Sea salt

Tips & tricks for making protein balls

• If the mixture is too sticky, add a couple of tablespoons of oats. If it’s too dry, add a little bit of almond butter until you reach the desired consistency.
• When using peanut butter, refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes before scooping it into balls. Chilling will help the mix firm up to hold its shape. Almond butter tends to firm up faster, so this step isn’t necessary unless the mixture is too sticky. Refrigerate for 10 minutes, if needed, when using almond butter.
• Use a COOKIE SCOOP to make uniform 1-inch balls.

Are energy balls healthy?

Energy balls can be a healthier snack and dessert option depending on the sugar content. Instead of chocolate chips, add dried fruit, shredded coconut, and nuts as mix-ins to cut the sugar. Adding chia seeds and flaxseeds also help provide omega-3s and fiber. Protein and fiber can help make you feel full longer in between meals.

Can you freeze energy balls?

Yes! We prefer to freeze ours to use in lunches and make them last longer. Wrap in an airtight container or plastic bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Recipe Variations

Double chocolate
Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
½ cup miniature chocolate chips.

Almond joy
Replace ½ cup oatmeal with ½ cup coconut flakes
¼ cup mini chocolate chips
¼ cup chopped almonds

Monster cookie
¼ cup Chocolate chips
¼ cup Mini M&M’s candy

Oatmeal raisin
½ cup raisins
¼ teaspoon cinnamon

Cranberry
¼ cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup white chocolate chips

More Recipes ideas:

• Almond Butter Overnight Oats
• Tzatziki Dip
• 3 Ingredient Oreo Balls