Chocolate Chia Energy Balls
We love the wholesome goodness of these Chocolate Chia Balls, which are your perfect choice for a healthy and delicious energy boost. This simple-to-make snack is rich in fiber and omega-3s and, of course, loaded with irresistible chocolate flavor.
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No-bake energy bites are such a great grab-and-go snack. Besides these chia balls, we also love this recipe for Hemp Seed Energy Balls and these yummy Protein Cookie Dough Balls. Check out all of our Snack Recipes for more inspiration.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Ingredients
Find the complete ingredient list, with measurements, in the recipe card below.
- Almond Butter – We always recommend using a natural variety of nut butter where only almonds are listed on the label.
- Honey – Choose a local variety of honey for the best flavor and environmental benefits.
- Cacao Powder – Raw cacao powder adds a chocolatey taste as well as antioxidants and minerals.
- Vanilla – For that classic warm flavor. Check out how to use all of the different types of vanilla.
- Rolled Oats – This is the bulk of the energy balls. Be sure to check for certified gluten-free on the label if allergies are a concern.
- Chia Seeds – These seeds add a snappy flavor and pack a punch of fiber.
- Salt – A pinch of fine sea salt pulls out the best taste of your ingredients.
- Chocolate Chips – Look for dark chocolate chips to maximize the nutritional profile of this recipe.
Equipment
Small Saucepan – We like using a stainless steel pot.
Mixing Bowl – A medium to large mixing bowl for stirring the ingredients.
Spoon or Spatula for mixing.
Small Cookie Scoop – This helps for accurate and even portion sizes.
Small Cookie Sheet – Use this baking pan to place the chia balls on ready to be chilled. We use a quarter sheet pan, so it easily fits into the fridge.
Parchment Paper – A must for easy cleanup. We recommend unbleached parchment paper.
Instructions
Scroll to the recipe card at the bottom for the FULL recipe details.
Step 1
First, line the baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Then, add the chia seeds and oats to the large mixing bowl.
Give them a stir and set the bowl aside.
Step 2
Next, melt the almond butter and honey in a small saucepan over low heat.
Stir until smooth.
Step 3
Then, add the cacao powder, sea salt, and vanilla to the saucepan.
Stir well until everything is combined.
Step 4
Next, pour the chocolate mixture over the oats and chia seeds in the bowl and mix well.
Pop the mixture in the fridge for five minutes to cool down.
Step 5
Then, add in the chocolate chips and stir again.
Expert tip! Based on my firsthand experience, I learned that placing the mixture in the fridge to cool down before adding the chocolate chips means the chocolate chips won’t melt into the mixture and will hold their shape.
Step 6
Using the small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into heaping tablespoon-sized balls.
Transfer the balls to the prepared cookie sheet and pop them into the fridge for 30 minutes to harden.
Substitutions
- Use peanut butter instead of almond butter. We recommend using a natural variety where peanuts are the only thing listed on the label. Check out his list of the best healthy peanut butter brands. Cashew butter and sunflower seed butter are also good substitutions.
- Cocoa powder is a good substitute instead of cacao.
- For a vegan recipe, substitute maple syrup instead of honey.
Recipe Variations
- Incorporate protein powder to boost the staying power of this snack. We recommend Ora Brand Protein as they have a super clean ingredient list.
- Give these balls a tropical vibe by adding shredded coconut to the mixture.
- Add some crunch by stirring in some toasted pecans, roasted hazelnuts, or walnuts.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy chia balls on their own as a quick and nutritious snack. This is a straightforward way to savor their natural flavors.
- Pair chia balls alongside your morning bulletproof coffee or tea as a quick breakfast. They are a great energy booster.
FAQS
Yes, chia balls are considered a healthy snack. Chia seeds are rich in omegas, fiber, and various nutrients. The additional ingredients, such as oats and almond butter, contribute to the overall nutritional profile, making them a wholesome option.
While chia balls can be a nutritious snack, they are generally not intended to replace a complete meal. They are better suited as a supplement to a well-balanced diet.
Storage Tips
To Store: Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week.
To Freeze: Keep these in the freezer in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
More Energy Bites Recipes
**This recipe was originally posted on April 7, 2014, and updated on January 18, 2024, with updated recipes, writing, and photos.**
If you’ve tried our chia balls recipe, please rate it and let us know how it turned out by leaving a comment below. I’m always interested in feedback!
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Chocolate Chia Balls
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- ⅛ tsp fine sea salt
- ½ cup almond butter
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup raw cacao powder
- 1 tsp vanilla
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, stir together the chia seeds and oats. Set the bowl aside.
- Next, in a small saucepan over low heat, melt together the almond butter and honey and stir until smooth.
- Then, stir in the cacao powder, sea salt and vanilla. Stir well until everything is combined.
- Next, pour the chocolate mixture over the oats and seeds and mix well.
- Pop the mixture in the fridge for five to ten minutes to cool down. Doing this will prevent the chocolate chips from melting when you stir them in.
- Once the mixture has cooled, add in the chocolate chips and stir.
- Roll the mixture into heaping tablespoon-sized balls ( using a small cookie scoop makes this easy ). Place the balls on a parchment lined cookie sheet and pop it into the fridge for thirty minutes to harden.
