Chocolate Oat Balls

Looking for an easy, healthy chocolate fix? Look no further. These chocolate oat balls are just what you are craving. Simple to make and featuring wholesome ingredients, they will satisfy the chocoholic in anyone.

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Energy balls and bites are my jam. From cookie dough protein balls to maple pecan energy balls, they all disappear quickly into my mouth. 😉 Check out all of our healthy snack recipes for more inspo.

Why you will love this recipe

This recipe is easy peasy to make. Chuck all the ingredients in a bowl and mix. Roll into balls and chill. Boom. Done.

These energy bites are a healthier chocolate treat, so you can stop buying the junk food. No guilt here with only wholesome ingredients.

A naturally gluten-free and vegan snack. Bonus!

Ingredients

Find the complete ingredient list, with measurements, in the recipe card below.

• Oats – Any oats will work. I have been using sprouted grain rolled oats from One Degree Organics.
• Shredded Coconut – Unsweetened shredded coconut adds sweetness and chew.
• Peanut Butter – I recommend using natural peanut butter from a fresh jar to take advantage of the oils to help bind this no-bake snack together.
• Crispy Rice Cereal – This adds a nice little crispy, crunchy aspect. We like brown rice crisps from Nature’s Path.
• Maple Syrup – To add a touch of natural sweetness. Also, this helps to hold the ball’s shape.
• Cocoa Powder – For the chocolate taste. You could also use cacao for even more nutrients.
• Chia Seeds – I love adding chia to my snacks for a tiny fiber boost.
• Vanilla Extract – Who doesn’t love that classic warm flavor? Just a drop will do.
• Dark Chocolate Chips – We recommend Enjoy Life chocolate morsels for a delicious dairy-free option.

Equipment

Nothing fancy required.

• Mixing Bowl – Choose one large enough to give you room to stir.
• Spatula – My favorite tool for mixing to scrape down the sides with precision. A spoon or even your hands work well too
• Small Cookie Sheet – This baking tray is to line up the balls on and transfer them to the freezer to chill.
• Parchment Paper – To line the cookie sheet 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, add the dry ingredients: oats, coconut, rice cereal, chia seeds, and cacao to a large mixing bowl. Stir them together.

Step 2

Next, add the peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla to the bowl and stir well again to combine everything.

Step 3

Lastly, fold in the chocolate chips.

Step 4

Then, roll the mixture into balls and place them on a cookie sheet. You can use your hands or a small cookie scoop.

Step 5

Finally, pop the sheet into the freezer for 30 minutes to firm up.

Substitutions and recipe variations

You can use honey instead of maple syrup as your sticky, natural sweetener as long as you’re not strictly vegan.

Add a drop of peppermint extract for a chocolate mint vibe.

For a nut-free snack, substitute the nut butter for sunbutter or tahini.

Sprinkle in some ground flaxseeds or hemp seeds for added nutrition.

For a protein boost, add in a scoop of clean protein powder.

Serving suggestions

My favorite is to eat out of the fridge as a quick and delicious snack or a healthy dessert, along with a nice chai spiced coffee.

Pack a couple up in your lunch bag for work or school.

Add some to a dessert platter on a buffet for holidays or game day for a healthier option.

FAQS

Storage tips

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

They can be frozen for up to 3 weeks.

More healthy snack recipes

If you’ve tried these chocolate oatmeal balls, please give me a rating and let me know how it turned out by leaving me a comment below. I’m always interested in feedback!

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