Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy Balls

🍫 Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy Balls (Vegan + Protein-Packed)

In the mood for something sweet… but healthy? Try these chocolate peanut butter energy balls! Let’s be real—snacking gets a bad wrap in diet culture. But in midlife, smart snacking can actually be a game-changer. Whether it’s keeping blood sugar stable between meals, boosting protein intake to support muscle maintenance, or simply helping us avoid the 3pm crash, healthy snacks are essential—not indulgent.

And when that snack feels like a peanut butter cup? Even better.

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy Balls are rich, chocolatey, and naturally sweetened with fiber-rich dates. They pack a satisfying amount of plant-based protein, and they’re just the right size to curb cravings without sending your blood sugar on a rollercoaster.

🐣 A Smarter Swap for Easter

This time of year, the aisles are bursting with sugary, processed treats—from peanut butter eggs to chocolate bunnies. If you’re craving something festive but nourishing, these chocolate peanut butter energy balls are a perfect swap.

They’re made with simple, whole-food ingredients and come together in minutes. You can even roll them in shredded coconut or dip them in melted dark chocolate for a more decadent touch. They’re kid-approved and midlife hormone-friendly.

Plus, they’re a great option to toss into an Easter basket for yourself (yes, you deserve one too).

🌱 Why They’re Midlife-Friendly:

• Protein & Fiber Combo: Keeps you fuller, longer.
• Naturally Sweetened: No refined sugar, just dates.
• Healthy Fats: From peanut butter and optional chia seeds—great for brain and hormone health.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegan protein powder or superfoods like flax or maca.

📝 Ingredients:

• 1 cup pitted Medjool dates (about 10–12)
• ¾ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup natural peanut butter
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 1 scoop vegan chocolate or vanilla protein powder
• 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt
• 1–2 tbsp plant milk, as needed
• Optional: mini vegan chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate for extra indulgence

🥣 Instructions:

1. Soften the Dates: If your dates are dry or firm, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to soften. Drain before using.
2. Blend the Base: In a food processor, pulse the dates until they form a sticky paste.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Toss in oats, peanut butter, cocoa, protein powder, chia seeds, vanilla, and salt. Process until combined.
4. Adjust Texture: If the mixture feels dry, add 1 tbsp of plant milk at a time until it sticks together when pressed.
5. Roll into Balls: Scoop about 1 tbsp of the mixture and roll into 1-inch balls. Add chocolate chips if using.
6. Chill: Refrigerate for 30+ minutes to firm up. Store in the fridge or freezer for easy access all week.

🍬 Makes:

16–18 energy balls

🔬 Nutrition (Per Ball, Approximate):

(Based on 18 balls with chocolate protein powder and chia seeds)

• Calories: 110
• Protein: 5g
• Carbs: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g (naturally from dates)
• Fat: 5g

🥡 Storage Tips:

Store in an airtight container:

• Fridge: Up to 7 days
• Freezer: Up to 2 months (just thaw before eating)

These are ideal for meal prep, travel, or post-yoga fuel. Keep a few in your bag for snack emergencies—they’ll hold up just fine for a few hours at room temp.

💡 HealthyHer Tip:

Try mixing up the flavor profile by:

• Swapping peanut butter for almond or cashew butter
• Rolling in crushed pistachios or coconut flakes
• Adding a touch of cinnamon or maca for a superfood boost

💬 Final Thought

Midlife is about fueling, not restricting. When you treat your body like it deserves nourishment (not punishment), magic happens. These energy balls are more than just a snack—they’re a delicious reminder that you can love your food and feel good afterward.

Ready to take your snacking game to the next level? Pair this recipe with [my latest video: 5 Healthy High-Protein Snacks You’ll Actually Want to Eat] (←link placeholder), and make healthy habits a lifestyle—not a chore.