Peanut Butter Stuffed Energy Balls are a healthy and satisfying snack made with natural ingredients like Medjool dates, roasted peanuts, and cocoa. These no-bake bites feature a creamy peanut butter center surrounded by a chewy, chocolatey date and nut coating, finished with a sprinkle of crunchy peanuts. Perfect for a midday pick-me-up or post-workout snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Peanut Butter Stuffed Energy Balls are a powerhouse snack that combines creamy, crunchy, sweet, and salty elements in one delicious bite. With natural peanut butter at the center and a chewy date-based shell enhanced by cocoa and crunchy peanuts, they are perfect for meal prepping and snacking on the go. Plus, they are vegan, gluten-free, and naturally sweetened. Peanut Butter Stuffed Energy Balls

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

10 pitted Medjool dates
⅓ cup salted dry-roasted peanuts plus 1 tablespoon finely chopped, divided
¼ cup smooth natural peanut butter plus 3¾ teaspoons, divided
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
2 tablespoons cocoa nibs

Directions

Place the dates in a small bowl and cover with hot water. Soak for 5–10 minutes until softened. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the soaking water, then drain the dates.
Pulse ⅓ cup of the peanuts in a food processor until coarsely chopped.
Add the drained dates, ¼ cup peanut butter, cocoa powder, and reserved soaking water. Process until a dough forms and pulls away from the sides, about 30 seconds.
Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the cocoa nibs. Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
Scoop 1 scant tablespoon of the date mixture and press it into a 2-inch round about 1/8-inch thick.
Place ¼ teaspoon peanut butter in the center. Gently pinch the date mixture around the peanut butter to seal and roll into a ball.
Repeat with the remaining mixture. Sprinkle the balls with the remaining 1 tablespoon finely chopped peanuts.
Cover and refrigerate until firm, at least 1 hour.

Servings and timing

Servings: 15
Active time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

Add a pinch of sea salt or cinnamon to the date mixture for extra flavor.
Swap peanuts with almonds or cashews.
Roll in shredded coconut or crushed nuts for a different finish.
Stir in mini chocolate chips or dried cranberries for variety.

Storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
These energy balls are not suitable for reheating.

FAQs

Can I use another nut butter?

Yes, almond or cashew butter can be substituted for peanut butter if preferred.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. These energy balls can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

What can I use if I don’t have cocoa nibs?

You can use mini chocolate chips or omit them entirely.

Are these freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge before eating.

What type of dates should I use?

Medjool dates are best due to their soft texture and natural sweetness.

How do I keep the mixture from being too sticky?

Make sure to drain the dates well and chill the mixture before forming the balls.

Can kids eat these?

Yes, they are kid-friendly and a great healthy snack option.

Is there a substitute for cocoa powder?

You can try carob powder as a caffeine-free alternative.

Can I make these without a food processor?

A high-powered blender may work, but a food processor is ideal for texture and consistency.

Do I have to soak the dates?

Yes, soaking softens the dates and helps them blend smoothly into a dough.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Stuffed Energy Balls are the perfect combination of nutritious and indulgent. Whether you’re packing them in a lunchbox or grabbing one between meetings, they offer a satisfying energy boost with a delicious peanut butter surprise inside. Easy to make, customize, and store, these bites are a healthy treat you’ll want on hand at all times.