No-Bake Vegan Energy Balls Recipe

An energy balls recipe is a healthy no-bake snack that is loved by both vegans and non-vegans alike. This post will answer some of the most common questions about energy balls, such as how long they last, can you freeze them, and if they are good for you? We'll also take a look at vegan protein balls to see what makes them different from regular energy balls.

a single energy bite in red wrapper next to orange slices

Jump to:

Vegan Energy Balls
What are Energy Balls?
What Can I use Instead of Medjool Dates?
What Can I Use to Replace Peanut Butter in Energy Bites?
Ingredients
Kitchen Tools
How to Make Vegan Energy Balls
Recipe
Discussion

Vegan Energy Balls

You've already got a lot on your plate, so it's important that the recipes you choose are quick and easy. If you're looking for something nutritious, delicious, and simple to make, these vegan no-bake energy balls might be just what you need!

Whip up this recipe in 10 minutes or less with only six ingredients to make the perfect snacks. They'll give you an instant burst of energy without weighing down your stomach as some heavier snacks would. Plus they taste great too - we promise this favorite recipe won't leave any leftovers when people get their hands on them tomorrow morning!

pink tablecloth with red and white checked napkin under red and white wrapped vegan energy balls

What are Energy Balls?

Energy balls, also known as no-bake energy bites or protein balls, are a healthy snack that is made up of only five to six ingredients. The base for these snacks is typically oats and dates which both contain high amounts of natural fiber to keep you full.

They may also include nut butter such as peanut butter or almond butter, which is high in healthy fats and protein. These ingredients are then mixed together to form a dough-like texture that can be rolled into balls and eaten immediately or stored for later consumption.

vegan protein balls in wrappers on blue table by sunflower seeds

What Can I use Instead of Medjool Dates?

If you don't care for the flavor of dates or perhaps you can't locate fresh dates locally, that is okay! There are a few different options to replace them in this recipe. You'll need an equal amount. The 5 to 6 dates needed for this are equal to approximately ½ cup dried fruit. Replace them in this recipe with up to ½ cup of any of or a mixture of the options below.

Raisins (regular or golden)
Dried figs
Dried apricots
Dried peaches or plums
Dried cherries or cranberries

Just make sure that whatever you use to substitute in this recipe is also vegan and has no animal product additives. With dried fruit this is 99% unlikely to happen, but if you are following a plant-based diet you know to always double-check.

four protein balls in wrappers on wood table by flowers

What Can I Use to Replace Peanut Butter in Energy Bites?

You are more than welcome to try different nut butter for your no-bake snacks, such as almond or cashew butter if you prefer a milder taste.

If you don't like the fat content of nuts then there is also sunflower seed butter which has fewer calories per serving size and doesn't have any cholesterol either!

protein bites in blue wrappers on gray table

Ingredients

Rolled oats
Medjool dates
Peanut butter
Coconut syrup
Non-dairy milk
Carob chips or vegan chocolate chips

Note: substitute honey or any favorite liquid sweetener in place of coconut flavored syrup.

Kitchen Tools

vegan energy bites in blue and red wrappers on blue table

How to Make Vegan Energy Balls

In a blender or food processor, add the rolled oats and pulse for 30-seconds.

blue cup of oats being poured into food processor

Add the Medjool dates to the oats and pulse until the dates are mostly small pieces and incorporated with the oats.

Next, add the peanut butter, coconut syrup (or honey), and non-dairy milk. Continue pulsing until the mixture is nicely combined.

spoon adding peanut butter into food processor

Pour into a large bowl, and then stir in the chocolate or carob chips.

hand mixing protein ball dough in glass bowl

With clean hands, form into 1" balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a container with a lid.

hand placing energy bite into blue wrapper

Store covered at room temperature for up to 5 days.

hand holding energy ball in wrapper above gray table

Are Energy Balls a Good Source of Protein?

Yes. With the combination of nut butter and oats, they are a good option for a small protein snack. They do not have a large amount of protein per ball but compared to other sugary and sweet snacks, they are an excellent choice. You can also add nuts and seeds to the mixture to increase the protein if desired.

Are Vegan Protein Balls Healthy?

These no-bake vegan energy balls are a healthier snack compared to many processed treats you may find in a grocery store. Since they are mostly protein and fiber they are considered a healthy choice. However, as with anything, an excess amount or a lot of mix-ins like chocolate can make them not as healthy. This recipe is a great healthy snack.

How Should I Store No-Bake Energy Balls?

These are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For less mess, I recommend separating layers of them with parchment paper or wax paper so they do not stick together.

How Long Do Vegan Energy Balls Last?

They are typically good for up to 5 days on the counter at room temperature. If you will not be eating them within 5 days, you will want to refrigerate them. They will last up to 10 days in the refrigerator.

Can I Freeze Protein Balls?

Yes. You can definitely freeze these vegan protein bites. Separate them in layers with parchment paper then place them into a freezer storage bag or an airtight freezer container. Make sure to label and date them and freeze them for up to one month after making them. They are best served at room temperature and can be thawed on the counter for 10 to 15 minutes prior to serving.

three energy balls in blue wrappers on wood slice

Recipe

Yield: 18