Chocolate Sea Salt Energy Balls

These rich dark chocolate and sea salt energy balls have become my go-to snack for busy workdays and pre-workout fuel. They deliver the perfect blend of indulgence and nutrition in just one bite, making healthy eating feel like a treat rather than a chore.

I first created these energy balls when searching for a portable snack to take on hiking trips. Now they've become a weekly staple in my refrigerator, with my partner often sneaking them before I can even finish rolling the batch.

Ingredients

• Natural peanut butter: Provides protein and healthy fats; choose a brand with no added sugar or oils for the cleanest flavor
• Rolled oats: Add necessary fiber and create the perfect chewy texture; opt for old-fashioned rather than quick oats
• Honey or maple syrup: Naturally sweetens the balls while helping bind ingredients together
• Dark chocolate chips: Deliver antioxidants and that crucial chocolate fix; use 70% cocoa or higher for maximum health benefits
• Ground flaxseed: Incorporates omega-3 fatty acids without affecting the taste; look for golden flaxseed for a milder flavor
• Sea salt: Balances the sweetness and creates an addictive flavor contrast; flaky sea salt works best
• Coconut flakes: Add tropical notes and delightful texture; toast them lightly for enhanced flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine Base Ingredients:

In a large bowl, mix together peanut butter, rolled oats, honey or maple syrup, ground flaxseed, and sea salt until fully incorporated. The mixture should be thick and somewhat sticky at this point. Take time to really work the ingredients together, ensuring no dry pockets remain.

Add Mix-Ins:

Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips and coconut flakes using a spatula. Distribute them evenly throughout the mixture so every bite contains these delicious elements. If the chocolate begins melting from the warmth of the mixture, that is perfectly fine and will create beautiful chocolate swirls.

Form Into Balls:

Using clean, slightly dampened hands, scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll between your palms to form 1-inch balls. Apply gentle but firm pressure to ensure they hold together. If the mixture feels too sticky, refrigerate it for 15 minutes before rolling.

Chill To Set:

Arrange the formed balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch each other. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up completely. The chilling process is essential for the perfect texture.

Finish With Salt:

Just before serving, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each ball. This final touch elevates the flavor and creates a beautiful presentation contrast.

Pin it

The dark chocolate is truly the star ingredient here. I discovered through experimentation that using chopped high-quality dark chocolate instead of chips creates pockets of chocolate throughout the balls that melt in your mouth. My daughter calls these her "special treats" and has no idea they’re actually good for her!

Make-Ahead and Storage

These energy balls are perfect for meal prep. I typically make a double batch on Sundays and store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, though they rarely last that long in my household. For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag where they'll keep for up to three months. Let frozen balls thaw in the refrigerator for about an hour before enjoying.

Pin it

Easy Customizations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily swap the peanut butter for almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter if you have allergies or preferences. The honey can be replaced with date paste for a fully vegan version. Try adding different mix-ins like dried cherries, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom. My personal favorite variation includes a tablespoon of orange zest which pairs beautifully with the dark chocolate. The recipe is forgiving, so feel free to adjust to your taste preferences.

Nutrition Benefits

These little powerhouses offer more than just great taste. The combination of protein from nut butter, fiber from oats and flaxseed, and healthy fats creates a balanced snack that provides sustained energy. The dark chocolate contains flavonoids that support heart health, while flaxseeds provide lignans and omega-3 fatty acids. Each ball delivers approximately 5 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber, making them nutritionally superior to most commercial granola bars. I often recommend these to my friends who are looking for healthier alternatives to processed snacks without sacrificing flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long do these energy balls stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these dark chocolate and sea salt energy balls will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.

→ Can I substitute the peanut butter?

Absolutely! You can substitute the peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter if you have allergies or preferences. Each alternative will provide a slightly different flavor profile but will work well in the recipe.

→ Are these energy balls healthy?

These energy balls contain nutritious ingredients like oats (fiber), flaxseed (omega-3s), and peanut butter (protein and healthy fats). While they do contain natural sweeteners and chocolate, they're a balanced snack that provides sustained energy and nutrients.

→ Can I make these without coconut?

Yes, you can omit the coconut flakes or replace them with chopped nuts, seeds, or even dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for a different texture and flavor profile.

→ Why do my energy balls fall apart?

If your mixture is too dry, the balls may crumble. Try adding a bit more peanut butter or honey/maple syrup to help bind the ingredients. Also, make sure to press the mixture firmly when forming the balls and allow them sufficient time to chill in the refrigerator.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Yes! Simply use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your dark chocolate chips are dairy-free. All other ingredients in the base recipe are already plant-based.