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Easy No-Bake Dark Chocolate Almond Butter Protein Balls

no bake dark chocolate almond butter protein balls - featured image

These no-bake protein balls combine rich dark chocolate and creamy almond butter for a quick, wholesome snack that provides a satisfying energy boost without the sugar crash.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240g) creamy unsweetened almond butter
  • 1/2 cup (90g) dark chocolate chips or chunks (70% cocoa or higher)
  • 1 cup (90g) rolled oats (old-fashioned)
  • 3 tablespoons (45ml) honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons (14g) ground flaxseed
  • 1 tablespoon (12g) chia seeds (optional)
  • Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Measure out all ingredients as listed.
  2. If a smoother texture is desired, melt the dark chocolate chips with the almond butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second bursts, stirring in between until smooth (about 1-2 minutes). Skip melting if chunkier texture is preferred.
  3. In a mixing bowl, stir together the almond butter (melted or room temperature), honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well blended.
  4. Add rolled oats, ground flaxseed, chia seeds (if using), and sea salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
  5. Fold in the dark chocolate chips if not melted earlier, mixing gently to keep chunks intact.
  6. Check the consistency; if too dry, add a teaspoon of water or more almond butter; if too wet, add more oats.
  7. Roll the mixture into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls using slightly wet hands to prevent sticking. This recipe yields about 15-18 balls.
  8. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  9. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.

Notes

Melting the chocolate with almond butter creates a smoother texture and richer flavor, but adding chips directly gives a chunkier bite. Wetting hands before rolling prevents sticking. Chill time is important to firm up the balls and meld flavors. For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats. Peanut butter or sunflower seed butter can substitute almond butter but will alter flavor. Adding protein powder is possible but may require adjusting other ingredients.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake, protein balls, almond butter, dark chocolate, healthy snack, quick energy, gluten-free, vegan option