If you’re searching for the best vegan peanut butter ball recipe, you’ve found your new go-to treat! These perfectly poppable bites are creamy, nutty, and chocolatey—all without a hint of dairy.
Whether you’re vegan or simply looking for a wholesome snack, these peanut butter balls are easy to make, packed with protein, and delightfully satisfying. They require only a few pantry staples and come together in less than 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy days, after-school snacks, or crowd-pleasing party platters.
What really sets these peanut butter balls apart is their irresistible texture: a soft, melt-in-your-mouth center wrapped in a rich chocolate shell. You don’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients.
Plus, they’re endlessly customizable for every craving and dietary need. Let’s dive in and create a batch of vegan peanut butter balls you’ll want to make again and again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: No baking required—just mix, shape, chill, and dip!
- 100% Vegan: Naturally dairy-free, egg-free, and plant-based for everyone to enjoy.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
- Kid-Friendly: Perfect for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or fun kitchen projects with little helpers.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite mix-ins or coatings, from coconut flakes to crunchy seeds.
- Healthy Treat: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber to keep you satisfied.
- Make-Ahead: Stores well in the fridge or freezer for grab-and-go snacking.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by vegans and non-vegans alike! Perfect for potlucks, parties, or gifting.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Natural peanut butter | 1 cup (240g) | Creamy, unsweetened, and unsalted preferred |
| Pure maple syrup | 1/3 cup (80ml) | For natural sweetness |
| Coconut flour | 1/2 cup (60g) | For binding and texture |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Optional, but highly recommended |
| Fine sea salt | 1/4 tsp | Balances flavors |
| Dairy-free dark chocolate chips | 1 cup (175g) | For coating |
| Coconut oil | 1 tbsp (optional) | Makes chocolate easier to dip |
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Small cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate) or double boiler
- Fork or dipping tool
- Refrigerator or freezer
Instructions
-
Prepare your baking sheet.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the peanut butter balls from sticking and make clean-up easy.
-
Mix the peanut butter base.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup natural peanut butter, 1/3 cup pure maple syrup, 1/2 cup coconut flour, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/4 tsp fine sea salt. Stir together using a spatula or wooden spoon until a thick, slightly crumbly dough forms.
If the dough seems too sticky, add a little more coconut flour, 1 tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a splash of plant-based milk.
-
Shape into balls.
Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the dough and roll it between your palms to form smooth, bite-sized balls. Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet.
You should get about 18-22 balls, depending on size.
-
Chill the peanut butter balls.
Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer for 15-20 minutes, or until the balls are firm. This step makes them easier to dip in chocolate without falling apart.
-
Melt the chocolate coating.
In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt 1 cup dairy-free dark chocolate chips with 1 tbsp coconut oil (if using). If microwaving, heat in 20-second bursts, stirring well between each until smooth and glossy.
-
Dip the peanut butter balls.
Using a fork or dipping tool, carefully lower each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Allow excess chocolate to drip off, then return the ball to the baking sheet.
Repeat for all balls.
-
Chill to set.
Once all balls are coated, place the baking sheet back in the fridge or freezer for 15-30 minutes, until the chocolate is set.
-
Enjoy or store.
Serve immediately, or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Tips & Variations
- Nut Butter Swaps: Not a fan of peanut butter? Try almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
- Mix-In Ideas: Stir in mini vegan chocolate chips, chopped nuts, chia seeds, or shredded coconut for extra texture.
- Flavor Boosts: Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the dough for a fun twist.
- Decorate: Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, crushed nuts, or cacao nibs.
- Chocolate Options: Swap dark chocolate for semi-sweet or even a vegan white chocolate if available.
- Make it festive by using colored sprinkles for parties or holidays!
“If your peanut butter is very runny, chill it before mixing, or use a bit more coconut flour to achieve the right consistency.”
Nutrition Facts
| Per Ball (1/20th recipe) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Total Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 9g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 35mg |
Note: Nutrition values will vary based on the specific brands and size of your peanut butter balls.
Serving Suggestions
- Snack Attack: Pack a few in your lunchbox, gym bag, or desk drawer for a quick energy boost.
- Dessert Platter: Arrange with fresh berries, dried fruit, and other vegan treats for an eye-catching dessert board.
- Party Ready: Pile high on a pretty plate for potlucks, picnics, or holiday gatherings.
- Giftable: Place in mini cupcake liners and box up for a thoughtful homemade food gift.
- Frozen Delight: Eat straight from the freezer for an extra-refreshing summer snack.
- Pairings: Enjoy alongside a mug of coffee, a glass of plant-based milk, or even with a scoop of Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream for the ultimate vegan dessert experience.
Conclusion
These vegan peanut butter balls prove that wholesome treats can be every bit as delicious—and even more satisfying—than their non-vegan counterparts. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you can whip up a batch that’s perfect for snacking, sharing, or gifting.
Their creamy, nutty center and crisp chocolate coating will win over anyone who takes a bite (vegan or not)!
If you love making easy, crowd-pleasing vegan desserts, be sure to try our Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe and bring the magic of chocolate into your kitchen. Or, if you’re feeling festive, whip up a batch of Christmas Cookie Shots for an adult-friendly treat with a twist.
And for savory snack inspiration, check out our classic Cheese Penny Recipe—perfect for any occasion!
No matter how you enjoy them, these vegan peanut butter balls are destined to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Happy snacking!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Peanut Butter Balls
Description: These vegan peanut butter balls are rich, chocolatey, and perfect for a quick snack or dessert. Easy to make and no baking required!
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT15M
Servings: 18 balls
Ingredients
- 1 cup natural creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup finely ground rolled oats
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegan dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth.
- Stir in oats and salt until combined.
- Roll mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
- Freeze balls for 10 minutes.
- Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil together until smooth.
- Dip each ball in melted chocolate, coating fully.
- Place back on the sheet and refrigerate until set.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 8g | Carbs: 10g
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