Snickers Protein Balls (No-Bake, Naturally Sweetened)

Name: Snickers Protein Balls (No-Bake, Naturally Sweetened)
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: ½ cup Medjool dates (5–6 large, pitted); ⅓ cup maple syrup (or honey / liquid sweetener of choice); ½ cup natural peanut butter; 1 scoop chocolate protein powder (≈25 g – can also use vanilla); 2½ tbsp PB&Me powdered peanut butter (optional, for extra protein & peanut flavor); ½ cup rolled oats; 1 cup almond flour; 2 tbsp peanuts (plus extra chopped peanuts for topping); Pinch of salt; 1 cup chocolate chips of choice (70%+ dark for dairy-free, or milk chocolate for more classic Snickers flavor); 1 tsp coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate); Flaky sea salt (for garnish)

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QUICK LOOK: SNICKERS PROTEIN BALLS RECIPE

⏱️ Prep Time: 20 minutes
❄️ Chill Time: 20 minutes
🕒 Total Time: 40 minutes

🍽️ Servings: 18 balls
🔢 Calories: ~190 (estimated)
💪 Protein: ~7g

💡 Difficulty: Easy (beginner-friendly!)
🥣 Dietary Info: Dairy-Free Option: Use 70% dark chocolate or higher for a dairy-free option.
Vegan Option: Use a Vegan protein powder and chocolate

If you love Snickers bars but want something you can feel good about keeping in the fridge, these no-bake Snickers protein balls are for you. They’ve got that classic combo of chocolate, peanut butter, and chewy caramel-like sweetness, but they’re made with simple ingredients like dates and maple syrup and there’s no baking required.

As a mom of two with a background in baking and recipe development, quick, make-ahead snacks like this are always on repeat in our house. These These Snickers Protein Balls come together in minutes, the kids grab them straight from the fridge, and you can swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.

If you love no-bake, energy/protein balls like my Birthday Cake Protein Balls, Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Protein Energy Balls, Carrot Cake Biscoff Energy Balls or Pumpkin Spice Protein Energy Balls, you’ll love this recipe. Find every flavour in my High Protein No-Bake Energy Ball collection.

And if you’re looking for more Snickers recipes, check out my collection of 6 healthy snickers-inspired snacks.

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Why You’ll Love These Snickers Protein Balls

Naturally sweetened with dates and maple syrup
Easy to prep ahead and freezer-friendly
Great for snacks, lunchboxes, or dessert
Packed with chocolate-peanut-caramel flavor

Ingredients Notes & Substitutions

Here’s a look at the main ingredients and easy substitutions. For exact measurements and instructions, scroll down to the recipe card.

Medjool Dates
These create the chewy, caramel-like base. Make sure they’re soft and fresh. If your dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 5–10 minutes and drain well.
Maple Syrup
Adds sweetness and helps everything blend smoothly. Honey or another liquid sweetener works just as well.
Natural Peanut Butter
Use drippy, natural peanut butter for best texture. If it’s too thick, the mixture can turn dry.
Protein Powder
Chocolate protein powder enhances the Snickers flavor, but vanilla works too. Use one you like the taste of and that fits your dietary restrictions, if necessary.
PB&ME Powdered Peanut Butter, optional
Boosts protein and intensifies the peanut flavor without adding extra oil.
Rolled Oats
Use regular or quick oats. Make sure they are labelled gluten-free if following a gluten-free diet.
Almond Flour
Adds structure and helps balance stickiness. You can sub oat flour if needed.
Peanuts
For crunch and that classic Snickers feel. Roasted peanuts add the best flavor.
Chocolate Chips
Use 70% dark chocolate or higher for a dairy-free option. Milk chocolate gives a more traditional candy-bar vibe and can still be dairy-free depending on brand.

How to Make No-Bake Snickers Protein Balls

Time needed: 40 minutes

Blend the Base
Add dates, maple syrup, peanut butter, protein powder, powdered peanut butter, rolled oats, almond flour, peanuts, and a pinch of salt to a food processor. Pulse until a thick dough forms and the oats are mostly broken down.

Tip: If the mixture seems dry, add water 1 teaspoon at a time. If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon of oats.
Roll the Balls
Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, scoop the dough and roll into balls with your hands. You should get about 18 balls. Place them on a parchment-lined plate or baking sheet.

Tip: Lightly wet your hands before rolling to prevent sticking.
Melt the Chocolate
Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil (if using) using the double boiler method or in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
Coat & Decorate
Dip or drizzle each ball with melted chocolate. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts and flaky sea salt while the chocolate is still wet.
Chill
Refrigerate for 20–25 minutes, or until the chocolate is set & enjoy.

I’d love to hear how your baking turned out!

Leave a review and star rating to let me know what you think.

Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram so I can see and share your creations @thesprinkledcakery!

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week
Freeze for up to 3 months
Let frozen protein balls sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating

Macros (per ball, based on 18 balls)

Calories: 190
Protein: 7g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 3g

NOTE: Nutrition is an estimate and will vary based on ingredient brands used.

Variations

Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter and skip the peanuts
Lower Sugar: Use a darker chocolate or reduce the chocolate coating
Extra Crunch: Add chopped pretzels or cacao nibs
No Protein Powder: Replace with extra almond flour and powdered peanut butter

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these Snickers Protein Balls need to be refrigerated?

They hold together best when chilled, especially because of the chocolate coating.

Can I make these without a food processor?

A food processor works best, but a high-powered blender can also work.

Are these Snickers protein balls healthy?

Yes! They’re naturally sweetened with dates and maple syrup, packed with protein from peanut butter and protein powder, and use wholesome ingredients like oats and almonds. They’re a healthier alternative to traditional candy bars.

Can I make these Snickers protein balls vegan?

Absolutely! Use a plant-based protein powder and dairy-free chocolate chips to keep them vegan. You can also swap maple syrup for a vegan-friendly liquid sweetener if needed.

Can I make these without dates?

You can substitute with other sticky, naturally sweet ingredients like dried figs, raisins, or apricots. Keep in mind it may slightly change the texture and sweetness.

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