Dark Chocolate Energy Balls are a simple, no-bake snack packed with rich chocolate flavor, natural sweetness, and a hint of sea salt. These bite-sized treats are nutritious, energizing, and perfect for on-the-go snacking or healthy dessert options.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love how quick and easy these energy balls are to make—no baking required! They’re wholesome, protein-rich, and made with pantry staples like oats, peanut butter, and honey. The dark chocolate and sea salt combination delivers the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavor that both kids and adults enjoy.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup oats (old fashioned or quick oats)
½ cup peanut butter
¼ cup honey
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup dark chocolate chips
2 teaspoons sea salt
In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, honey, cocoa powder, dark chocolate chips, and sea salt. Mix with a spoon or your hands until the mixture sticks together.
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls (about 2 tablespoons each).
Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 1–2 hours to set.
Store the chilled energy balls in an airtight container.
Servings and timing
Serves: 18 energy balls
Prep time: 5 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Variations
Substitute almond or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.
Add shredded coconut for extra texture.
Mix in dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for natural sweetness.
Replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan option.
Use mini chocolate chips for a smoother texture.
Storage/Reheating
Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.
For long-term storage, freeze for up to 6 months in a freezer-safe bag.
To serve, thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before eating.
FAQs
What kind of oats should I use?
Old-fashioned or quick oats both work well; old-fashioned oats provide more texture.
Can I make these energy balls vegan?
Yes, replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
How can I make them nut-free?
Use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of peanut butter.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, though it will make the energy balls sweeter and less rich.
Why aren’t my energy balls sticking together?
Add a little more peanut butter or honey until the mixture binds well.
Are these suitable for kids?
Absolutely! They’re packed with wholesome ingredients and perfect for lunchboxes.
Can I skip the sea salt?
You can, but it enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.
Do I need to chill them before eating?
Chilling helps the balls firm up, but you can enjoy them right after rolling if preferred.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe scales easily—just mix in a larger bowl.
Are these good for pre-workout snacks?
Definitely! They provide quick energy from oats, protein, and healthy fats.
Conclusion
Dark Chocolate Energy Balls are the perfect blend of indulgence and nutrition. With their rich chocolate flavor, chewy texture, and energizing ingredients, they make a fantastic snack for any time of day. Keep a batch in your fridge or freezer for a healthy treat that’s always ready when you need it.
Dark Chocolate Energy Balls are no-bake, bite-sized snacks made with oats, peanut butter, honey, and dark chocolate. They’re nutritious, rich in flavor, and perfect for quick energy boosts or healthy treats.
Ingredients
1 cup oats (old fashioned or quick oats)
½ cup peanut butter
¼ cup honey
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup dark chocolate chips
2 teaspoons sea salt
Optional: 1–2 tablespoons chia seeds
Optional: 1–2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, honey, cocoa powder, dark chocolate chips, and sea salt.
Mix well with a spoon or your hands until the mixture comes together and sticks.
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls (about 2 tablespoons each).
Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Refrigerate for 1–2 hours to set.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.
Notes
If the mixture is too dry, add a bit more peanut butter or honey to help bind.
For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
You can enjoy them immediately, but chilling improves texture.
Great for lunchboxes, pre-workout snacks, or healthy desserts.
Use mini chocolate chips if you prefer a more even texture.
