These 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Oatmeal Balls are a no-bake, healthy snack that’s quick and easy to make. Perfect for on-the-go energy, these bite-sized treats are naturally sweetened and packed with protein and fiber.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: Just three pantry staples and no baking required.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Made with natural ingredients and no added sugar.
- Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins to make them your own.
- Kid-Friendly: A perfect snack for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Peanut butter (natural, unsweetened preferred)
- Rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick oats)
- Honey or maple syrup (for a vegan option)
Directions
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of peanut butter, 1 ½ cups of rolled oats, and ⅓ cup of honey or maple syrup. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Chill the Mixture:
- Place the bowl in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to firm up the mixture, making it easier to roll.
- Form Balls:
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into balls using your hands.
- Store:
- Place the balls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: About 15-20 balls (depending on size)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Add-Ins: Mix in chocolate chips, dried fruit, chia seeds, or shredded coconut.
- Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of protein powder to the mixture.
- Spicy Twist: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract.
- Crunchy Texture: Use crunchy peanut butter or add chopped nuts.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before eating.
FAQs
1. Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
No, steel-cut oats are too hard and won’t blend well in this recipe.
2. How do I make the mixture less sticky?
Add a small amount of oats if the mixture feels too sticky to handle.
3. Can I use sweetened peanut butter?
Yes, but adjust the honey or maple syrup to avoid making the balls overly sweet.
4. How do I keep the balls from falling apart?
Chill the mixture longer if it’s too soft, or add more peanut butter for better binding.
5. Can I make these vegan?
Yes, use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly option.
6. Are these gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats.
7. Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Absolutely! Any nut or seed butter works well in this recipe.
8. How do I portion the balls evenly?
Use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon for uniform sizes.
9. Can I skip the chilling step?
Chilling makes the mixture easier to roll, but it’s optional if you don’t mind a stickier texture.
10. Are these safe for kids to eat?
Yes, they’re a kid-friendly snack, but ensure all ingredients are safe for your child’s dietary needs.
Conclusion
These 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Oatmeal Balls are the ultimate no-bake snack that’s easy to make and delicious to eat. Perfect for busy mornings, post-workout fuel, or a mid-day energy boost, these wholesome bites are sure to become a favorite in your household. Try them today and enjoy a guilt-free treat!
Print3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Oatmeal Balls
These no-bake peanut butter oatmeal balls are a healthy and delicious snack made with just 3 simple ingredients. Perfect for meal prep, they’re great for breakfast, snacking, or an energy boost on the go.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 12 balls 1x
- Category: Snack / No-Bake
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup (90g) old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup (125g) natural peanut butter (or any nut/seed butter)
- 1/4 cup (85g) honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
Instructions
1. Mix the Ingredients:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the oats, peanut butter, and honey.
- Stir until well combined. If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more peanut butter or honey. If too sticky, add a few extra oats.
2. Form the Balls:
- Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball with your hands.
- Repeat until all the mixture is used. You should get about 12 balls.
3. Chill:
- Place the balls on a plate or tray and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to firm up.
4. Serve:
- Enjoy straight from the fridge or at room temperature! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
- Customize with mix-ins like mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, chia seeds, or a pinch of cinnamon.
- Use gluten-free oats if needed.
- Substitute peanut butter with almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter for variety.