Name: No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular); 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats (or quick oats); 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Optional: 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, flaxseed, shredded coconut, or protein powder

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These No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls are one of my favorite treats to make when I want something sweet, quick, and satisfying without turning on the oven. They’re rich, nutty, and just the right amount of indulgent. I love that they only take a few simple ingredients and a few minutes to put together. Whether I’m craving a midday snack or prepping something sweet ahead of time, these always hit the spot.

No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these peanut butter balls are naturally sweet, full of flavor, and come together in no time. They’re perfect for kids and adults alike, and I can easily customize them to fit different dietary needs—whether I want them low-sugar, high-protein, or even chocolate-covered. No baking, no complicated steps, just mix, roll, and chill.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

creamy peanut butter (natural or regular)
honey or maple syrup
old-fashioned oats (or quick oats)
vanilla extract
a pinch of salt
optional: mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, flaxseed, shredded coconut, or protein powder

directions

In a large mixing bowl, I combine the peanut butter, honey, vanilla, and salt.
I stir in the oats until the mixture is thick and well combined.
If I’m adding extras like chocolate chips or flaxseed, I fold them in now.
I use a small cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the mixture and roll it into balls with my hands.
I place the balls on a parchment-lined tray and chill them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Once chilled, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12–16 balls, depending on size.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

I dip the balls in melted dark chocolate for a dessert-like finish.
I add a scoop of protein powder for a post-workout snack.
I roll them in shredded coconut or crushed nuts for extra texture.
For a chocolatey version, I mix in cocoa powder or mini chocolate chips.
I sometimes use almond butter or sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.

storage/reheating

I store the peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, I freeze them in a sealed bag or container for up to 2 months.
There’s no reheating needed—I just let frozen ones sit out for a few minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned?

Yes, I’ve used both. Quick oats give a smoother texture, while old-fashioned oats offer more chew.

Can I make these nut-free?

Absolutely. I swap the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini for a nut-free version.

Are these suitable for kids?

Definitely. They’re soft, easy to eat, and full of wholesome ingredients. Just be mindful of any allergies.

Can I skip the sweetener?

I reduce or skip the honey if my peanut butter is already sweetened, but it helps bind the mixture and adds flavor.

Do I have to chill them?

I chill them so they firm up and hold their shape better. If I’m in a rush, I pop them in the freezer for 10–15 minutes instead.

Conclusion

No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls are one of those easy, reliable snacks I can whip up anytime. They’re quick, delicious, and endlessly versatile—perfect for meal prep, sweet cravings, or healthy snacking. I love that I can make a batch in minutes and keep them on hand for whenever I need a little energy boost or treat.