3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls

Ever wish you could enjoy a Reese’s cup without the guilt? Where there’s a will, there’s a way! These 3 ingredient peanut butter balls (inspired by registered dietician Alissa Steinberg) will make you feel like you’re indulging in your favorite candy – only they’re packed with nutrition! Peanut butter powder and apple sauce unite to form the creamy center, while the chocolate coating is the cure-all for your cocoa cravings. Add in a scoop of protein powder and transform this once forbidden treat into a source of strength.

What stands out

These 3 ingredient peanut butter balls are the clean-eating version of your favorite peanut butter cups. The best part? You won’t have to compromise on flavor! Naturally sweet apple sauce, powdery PB2, and antioxidant-rich dark chocolate come together in the easiest recipe ever. Add in a scoop of protein powder, and they suddenly become a post-workout indulgence that doubles as a way to replenish nutrients. Creamy, peanut-buttery, chocolatey goodness – and helps you hit your protein goals? See – totally guilt-free!

How to Prepare

In a bowl, add the PB2 (powdered peanut butter) and mix it with the apple sauce until you have a tacky dough.

Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each one into a ball. Set aside.

Next, over a double boiler (or in the microwave), melt the chocolate.

Once the chocolate is melted, dip each ball into the melted chocolate and move it around with a fork making sure to let the excess drip back into the bowl.

Place the coated chocolate peanut butter ball onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and repeat the previous step until all 12 are coated in chocolate.

Freeze for 20 minutes (or until solidified).

Enjoy a few right away and store the rest in a glass container in the fridge!

Kitchen tip

If the dough is too sticky or wet, please add a little bit of PB2 at a time until it resembles a play-dough like consistency. You should be able to rip off a piece and roll it into a smooth ball.

Swaps

1. For an extra healthy boost feel free to add in a scoop of your favorite protein powder.
2. If you don’t have any chocolate chips on hand, you can substitute them with your favorite high quality baking bar or melting wafers.
3. Mix in finely chopped nuts or dried fruits for added texture…and energy!

Tips For The Best Peanut Butter Balls

We're all about setting our people up for success, so here’s a list of tips to help you create the most flawless 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls!

• Adjust the Dough Consistency – If the dough feels too dry, add a little more applesauce, one teaspoon at a time, until it resembles a play-dough like consistency. If it’s too wet, sprinkle in a bit more PB2 to firm it up.
• Wet your hands – Lightly wetting your hands can help prevent the dough from sticking while rolling the balls.
• Melt Chocolate Slowly – If using a microwave, melt the chocolate in 15-20 second intervals, stirring between each, to prevent burning. If using a double boiler, stir constantly for an even melt.
• Use a Fork for Dipping – Place each ball on a fork and dip it into the melted chocolate. Tap the fork gently against the bowl to let excess chocolate drip off before placing it on parchment paper.
• Chill Before Dipping – If your peanut butter balls feel too soft, place them in the freezer for 5-10 minutes before dipping. This helps them hold their shape while you’re coating them with the chocolate.

Serve it with

• Create an assortment of small bites to give you an energy boost throughout the day with these 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls No Bake Chocolate Balls and Energy Bites.
• Enjoy with a Strawberry Protein Shake for the post-workout treat.
• Snack on these with with your afternoon coffee or tea for the ultimate pick-us-up.
• Wash them down with a cold glass of Homemade Almond Milk or Homemade Oat Milk for a late night snack.

Questions

How long will these last in the fridge?

3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls typically last up to two weeks in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.

can i add protein to these?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite protein powder for an extra boost!

Can we add other ingredients to the mixture?

Yes! You can add your favorite nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor – just make sure they’re finely chopped so the dough stays together.

Why are our protein balls falling apart?

Short answer: they need moisture. Try adding a spoonful of applesauce at a time until the dough takes shape.

Why are our peanut butter balls so sticky?

If the dough is too sticky or wet, try adding a little bit of peanut butter powder until the dough smooths out.

Ingredients

Makes 12 balls

• 1 cup PB2
• ½ cup apple sauce
• ½ cup chocolate chips, dark or any

Equipment

• Mixing Bowls
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper
• Measuring Cups + Spoons
• Peanut Butter Powder
• Apple Sauce

Method

1. In a bowl, add the PB2 (powdered peanut butter) and mix it with the apple sauce until you have a tacky dough.
2. If the dough is too sticky or wet, please add a little bit of PB2 at a time until it resembles a play-dough like consistency.
3. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each one into a ball. Set aside.
4. Next, over a double boiler (or the microwave), melt the chocolate.
5. Once the chocolate is melted, dip each one into the melted chocolate and move it around with a fork making sure to let the excess drip back into the bowl.
6. Place the coated chocolate peanut butter ball onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and repeat the previous step until all 12 are coated in chocolate.
7. Freeze for 20 minutes (or until solidified).
8. Each one is approximately 70 calories (depending on the brands you use) and you can store them in a glass container in the fridge. Enjoy!

Kitchen notes

Protien Powder:

For an extra healthy boost, feel free to add in a scoop of your favorite protein powder. Chocolate, vanilla, and peanut butter flavors work well here. Chocolate Variations: If you don’t have any chocolate chips on hand, you can substitute them with your favorite high quality baking bar or melting wafers. Mix-Ins: Mix in finely chopped nuts or dried fruits for added texture…and energy!