True or true: chocolate makes everything better 🍫 including my favorite on-the-go snack— protein balls!

I added cacao powder (a natural, unsweetened source of minerals) to our standard protein ball recipe, and I couldn’t be happier with the way they turned out! They are rich in chocolate but only sweetened by the honey (which helps shape + hold the balls together) and a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey bite. 🍪

These are the absolute best to have in the fridge when you need just a little nibble to hold you over!

More protein ball recipes! Oatmeal Protein Energy Balls, Valentine’s Day Oatmeal Protein Energy Balls.

Why you’ll love this recipe!

They’re packed with gluten-free oats, making them a great choice for anyone avoiding gluten.
This recipe is super flexible. If you’re not a fan of peanut butter, feel free to swap it out for almond butter or your favorite seed butter.
We’re keeping things sweet and simple here; the natural sweetness from honey and chocolate chips means no added sugars!
With the combo of oats, flaxseed meal, and chia seeds, these little bites are high in fiber. They’re not only tasty but also help with digestion and keep you feeling fuller for longer.

Ingredients you’ll need:

Here’s what goes into the mix:

1 cup gluten-free rolled oats (I use Bob’s Red Mill)
⅓ cup unsweetened peanut butter (can substitute with almond butter or your favorite nut/seed butter)
⅓ cup flaxseed meal (optional)
⅓ cup local honey
2 tbsp. cacao powder
2 tbsp. mini chocolate chips
1 tbsp. chia seeds

How to make chocolate protein energy balls

Wash your hands (haha, but really!) and leave them slightly damp.
In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
Using a spoon, scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into a ball.
Place each ball onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
Chill in the freezer for at least two hours. Then, transfer the balls to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. Enjoy!

Storing your protein energy balls

Once you’ve rolled your energy balls, they’re best stored in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for about a week, or you can freeze them for up to a month. Just pull a couple out when you need an on-the-go snack!

Customize your energy balls

Try adding your favorite protein powder for an extra boost of protein! Chocolate, vanilla, or unflavored protein powder are all great options, depending on which flavor you like best. A plant-based option, like pea protein powder, is perfect if you’re skipping animal products, while whey protein is a great choice if you love that creamy texture and want the full protein package!

Note: Adding protein powder might make the mix a bit thicker, so you may need a splash of extra liquid or a little more nut butter to keep it easy to roll.
Honey is my go-to sweetener for these energy balls, but maple syrup, agave syrup, or date syrup all work beautifully in this recipe too.
Almonds, cacao nibs, or chopped peanuts can add a nice little crunch if you’re into some extra texture! Almond butter or cashew butter can also be used instead of peanut butter—it’s all up to you!

Savvy tips!

1. Use a Food Processor or Blender
If you want a smoother texture, blend the oats, flax, and any other dry ingredients in a food processor or blender before mixing with the wet ingredients.

2. Adjusting Consistency
If your protein ball mixture feels too sticky or too dry, add a little almond milk for moisture or almond flour to thicken it up.

3. Make it Your Own!
Experiment with this recipe by adding a dash of vanilla extract for a subtle sweet vanilla flavor or tossing in some chopped Medjool dates or Deglet Noor dates for natural sweetness—perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth!

How to make protein balls vegan?

Simply substitute the honey with a vegan sweetener like maple syrup or agave syrup. You can use the same amount—⅓ cup should work well. It’s always best to check all of your ingredients to ensure they are vegan, especially for items like chocolate chips or nut butter, as some brands may contain non-vegan additives.

Can I freeze my protein balls?

Yes! You can keep these protein balls in the freezer for up to three months. To do so, place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag, making sure to seal it tightly. Don’t forget to label the container or bag with the date for reference. When you’re ready to snack, just take a protein ball out of the freezer and allow it to thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying!

These tasty chocolate energy bites are such a lifesaver for those times I’m needing a little midday pick-me-up! They’re absolutely perfect for a pre- or post-workout snack and make a perfect afternoon snack as well. Made with simple ingredients, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how irresistible and delicious they are!