Name: PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: ½ cup natural peanut butter; 3 tablespoons honey; 1½ cups old-fashioned oats; 2 tablespoons chia seeds; ½ cup dried cherries; 1 scoop collagen peptides or protein powder (optional)

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When I first stumbled upon the idea of making PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls, I was on the hunt for something that could satisfy my sweet tooth without sending me on a sugar rollercoaster. As a busy individual, I wanted a snack that was quick to grab but didn’t compromise on nutritional value. These little balls of joy have become my go-to solution for those midday cravings. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they also deliver a punch of energy to keep me going throughout the day. Imagine taking a bite and having the familiar taste of peanut butter and jelly wrapped in a wholesome oat base—it’s truly nostalgic! I often whip up a batch on the weekends, and they disappear before I know it. Whether you’re hitting the gym, tackling a busy workday, or just need a nourishing treat, these energy balls are perfect. Plus, they’re so simple to make, you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried them sooner!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl

The Best Thing About This PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls

Convenient and Quick

One of the best things about PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls is how easy they are to prepare. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can whip these up in no time. No extensive cooking skills are necessary, which is a huge plus for those of us who prefer to spend less time in the kitchen.

Perfectly Portable

These energy balls are incredibly portable. I often take them with me when I’m running errands or heading to work. They fit perfectly in a small container or even in a ziplock bag. It’s a great way to keep hunger at bay without reaching for unhealthy snacks.

Nutritional Powerhouses

Loaded with fiber and protein, PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls are a great way to fuel your day. The combination of oats, peanut butter, and chia seeds provides a balanced source of energy that will keep you satisfied longer. They’re perfect for post-workout recovery or as a healthier dessert option!

Customizable Flavors

What I love most is that you can easily customize these energy balls to suit your taste preferences. Want to swap out the dried cherries for chocolate chips? Go for it! Feel free to add your favorite nuts or seeds to make them uniquely yours.

Healthy Indulgence

These energy balls strike the perfect balance between indulgence and health. You can enjoy the sweet and creamy taste of peanut butter and jelly without the guilt. It’s a treat that feels like a dessert but is packed with nutrients!

Kid-Friendly Snack

If you’re looking for a healthy snack for kids, these PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls are a hit! They’re fun to make together, and kids love them. It’s an excellent way to introduce more nutritious options into their diet without feeling deprived.

Shopping List for PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for making the perfect PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls. Each ingredient contributes to the delightful flavor and texture of these bites. Let’s explore the key players that make this recipe so special.

½ cup natural peanut butter: Creamy and full of flavor, natural peanut butter serves as the base for these energy balls. It provides healthy fats and a delicious nutty taste.
3 tablespoons honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and binds the ingredients together, making the balls stick.

1½ cups old-fashioned oats: These oats provide a chewy texture and are a great source of fiber, helping to keep you full.
2 tablespoons chia seeds: Chia seeds are packed with nutrients and give a boost of omega-3 fatty acids, as well as a nice crunch.
½ cup dried cherries: Dried cherries add a burst of sweetness and a chewy texture, complementing the peanut butter perfectly.

1 scoop collagen peptides or protein powder (optional): This optional ingredient can enhance the protein content of your energy balls, making them even more satisfying.

Making PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls

Preparing PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious snack ready in no time. Let’s get started on creating these tasty bites.

In a large bowl, add natural peanut butter, honey, old-fashioned oats, chia seeds, and optional collagen peptides or protein powder. Use a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should start to come together, forming a thick paste.

If you notice that the mixture is too dry and crumbly, don’t hesitate to add more peanut butter one tablespoon at a time until it holds together. Alternatively, if it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a little more old-fashioned oats.
Once the mixture is just right, use a heaping tablespoon to scoop out portions of the oat mixture. Roll each portion into a ball between your palms. You should end up with a nice, round shape.
Place the formed balls onto a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This makes for easy storage later on.

Once all the energy balls are formed, it’s time to refrigerate them. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up, making them easier to handle.
After chilling, you can store your PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls in an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to three months, giving you a convenient snack for later.
Enjoy your energy balls as a nourishing snack anytime you need a boost. They’re perfect for on-the-go munching or as a pre-workout treat!

Things Worth Knowing

Consistency is Key: The mixture should be sticky enough to hold together but not too wet. Adjust the peanut butter and oats accordingly.
Chilling Time: Allowing the balls to chill ensures they hold their shape, making them easier to eat and store.
Dried Fruit Choices: Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits like cranberries or raisins to switch up the flavors.

Protein Boost: If you’re looking for an extra protein kick, consider adding nuts or using protein powder.
Batch Size: You can easily double or triple the recipe to make a larger batch, perfect for meal prep!

Tips and Tricks about PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls

Here are some helpful tips I’ve gathered over time to ensure your PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls turn out perfectly every time.

Storage: Store your energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months.
Flavor Variations: Try using almond butter instead of peanut butter for a different flavor profile.
Mix-ins: Don’t hesitate to add in some dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions: These energy balls make for a fantastic snack before or after workouts!
Portion Control: Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized energy balls that are perfect for snacking.
Nut Allergies: If you have nut allergies, feel free to substitute sunflower seed butter or any other nut-free alternative.

What Goes Well With This PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls

Great for Breakfast: Pair these energy balls with a smoothie for a quick and nutritious breakfast on the go.
Midday Snack: They’re perfect for a midday pick-me-up when you need something sweet yet healthy.
Post-Workout Treat: Enjoy them after a workout for a boost of energy and recovery.

Lunchbox Favorite: These energy balls are a hit with kids and adults alike, making them ideal for lunchboxes.
Seasonal Variations: During the fall, you can add pumpkin spice to the mixture for a seasonal twist.
Ice Cream Pairing: Try crumbling one over a bowl of yogurt or ice cream for a delightful dessert.

FAQ

Absolutely! PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls are packed with nutritious ingredients. The combination of peanut butter, oats, and chia seeds provides a good balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein. They make for a satisfying snack that can help keep your energy levels stable throughout the day.

You can store PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Definitely! One of the best things about PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls is their versatility. You can swap out the dried cherries for other dried fruits, add in chocolate chips, or even incorporate different nut butters to create your unique flavor combinations.

This recipe yields about 12 to 14 energy balls, depending on the size you make them. If you’re making them for a crowd or want to have extra on hand, you can easily double or triple the recipe.

Conclusion

In conclusion, PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls are a fantastic blend of flavor and nutrition that make them a special treat for any time of the day. They’re not just a quick snack; they’re a wholesome option that can energize your day. I encourage you to try making them; you’ll love how simple and satisfying they are. Give these energy balls a go, and you’ll likely find them becoming a staple in your kitchen!

PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls

The ultimate snack for any peanut butter lover! These PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls are a delicious and nutritious way to satisfy your cravings. Perfect for a quick breakfast or a post-workout treat, they’re easy to make and keep you energized. Enjoy these healthy bites that taste like dessert but are packed with wholesome ingredients!

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Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 12 balls

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

½ cup natural peanut butter
3 tablespoons honey
1½ cups old-fashioned oats
2 tablespoons chia seeds
½ cup dried cherries
1 scoop collagen peptides or protein powder optional

Instructions

In a large bowl, add natural peanut butter, honey, old-fashioned oats, chia seeds, and optional collagen peptides or protein powder. Use a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should start to come together, forming a thick paste.

If you notice that the mixture is too dry and crumbly, don’t hesitate to add more peanut butter one tablespoon at a time until it holds together. Alternatively, if it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a little more old-fashioned oats.
Once the mixture is just right, use a heaping tablespoon to scoop out portions of the oat mixture. Roll each portion into a ball between your palms. You should end up with a nice, round shape.
Place the formed balls onto a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This makes for easy storage later on.

Once all the energy balls are formed, it's time to refrigerate them. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up, making them easier to handle.
After chilling, you can store your PB and J Oatmeal Energy Balls in an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to three months, giving you a convenient snack for later.
Enjoy your energy balls as a nourishing snack anytime you need a boost. They’re perfect for on-the-go munching or as a pre-workout treat!

Notes

Storage: Store your energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months.
Flavor Variations: Try using almond butter instead of peanut butter for a different flavor profile.
Mix-ins: Don’t hesitate to add in some dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions: These energy balls make for a fantastic snack before or after workouts!
Portion Control: Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized energy balls that are perfect for snacking.
Nut Allergies: If you have nut allergies, feel free to substitute sunflower seed butter or any other nut-free alternative.