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Easy No-Bake Peanut Butter Protein Energy Balls Recipe for Night Shift Nurses

no-bake peanut butter protein energy balls - featured image

These no-bake peanut butter protein energy balls are a quick, easy, and delicious snack designed to provide sustained energy during long night shifts. Made with simple pantry staples, they require no baking and are perfect for busy schedules.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (135g) rolled oats
  • ¾ cup (190g) peanut butter (smooth or crunchy, natural preferred)
  • ¼ cup (85g) honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
  • 1 scoop (about 30g) vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
  • 2 tbsp (20g) chia seeds (optional)
  • 2 tbsp (14g) ground flaxseed
  • ¼ cup (45g) mini dark chocolate chips (optional)
  • A pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Combine the dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, ground flaxseed, chia seeds, and sea salt. Stir gently to mix evenly (about 2 minutes).
  2. Add the wet ingredients: Pour in peanut butter and honey. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to mix everything together until sticky and thick. If too dry, add a teaspoon of water or almond milk one at a time (5-7 minutes).
  3. Stir in mix-ins: Fold in mini dark chocolate chips or chosen extras like dried fruit or nuts (1 minute).
  4. Form the balls: Using hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls. Wet or lightly oil hands if sticky. Aim for about 20 to 24 balls (5 minutes).
  5. Chill and set: Place balls on a baking sheet or tray lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Alternatively, freeze for 15 minutes for quicker setting.

Notes

Use natural peanut butter for best flavor and texture. Don’t skip chilling to prevent crumbling. Adjust sweetness by reducing honey or swapping with maple syrup. Wet or oil hands before rolling to prevent sticking. Protein powder brands vary in moisture absorption; add almond milk or water if mixture is crumbly. Store in airtight container in fridge up to one week or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake, peanut butter, protein balls, energy balls, night shift snack, healthy snack, quick snack, vegan option, gluten-free