The content in this article should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider regarding your individual health needs.
Finding a great snack can be a tall order. You want something that’s convenient, steady on your glucose, and actually tastes great. Some snacks might check the “glucose-friendly” box but fall flat on flavor.
These no-bake peanut butter oats and coconut energy balls check all the right boxes. They come together in minutes and are easy to stash in the fridge for the week. They’re tasty little treats, whether you're powering through your afternoon or just need something to tide you over between meals.
How they support steady glucose and sustained energy
When it comes to staying full and keeping your glucose steady, fiber and protein are your go-to teammates.
Fiber helps you stay full longer
Coconut and oats bring both soluble and insoluble fiber to the mix. That’s the kind of combo that slows and supports digestion, and helps keep your glucose steadier, so you’re not reaching for something else 20 minutes later.
Protein keeps hunger in check
Peanut butter isn’t just delicious; it’s satisfying. Protein helps regulate appetite by signaling your brain when you’ve had enough, making it easier to avoid that snack spiral.
No-bake peanut butter oats and coconut energy balls recipe
SERVES: 12
SERVING SIZE: 1 ball
PREP TIME: 10 minutes
SERVING SIZE: 1 ball
PREP TIME: 10 minutes
Estimated Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 137
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Sugar: 6.9 g
- Protein: 3.8 g
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy, your call)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsweetened almond milk
Directions
- In a large bowl, mix oats, coconut, and chocolate chips.
- In a separate bowl, stir together peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla, and almond milk until smooth.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
- Scoop and roll into 12 small balls. If it’s too sticky, lightly coat your hands with coconut or vegetable oil.
- Place on parchment-lined tray and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up.
Storage tips
Let them set in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before eating. Once they’re firm, you can store them in the fridge for up to 1 week (in an airtight container), or in the freezer up to 3 months.
Make it your own
Want to tweak the recipe to better fit your needs? Go for it. These swaps can help:
Lower the carbs
Use a zero-sugar maple alternative and skip the chocolate chips.
Reduce saturated fat
Roll them in hemp seeds, crushed peanuts, or chia seeds instead of coconut.
Boost the protein
Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mix (Heads up: This will increase the overall protein content, but it also adds extra calories—something to keep in mind if you’re watching your intake).
A smart snack that tastes like dessert
These energy balls strike that sweet spot between indulgent and functional. They’re a great option when you want something satisfying, simple, and a little bit sweet.
Want to see how they stack up with your glucose? With Stelo, you can see in real time how these snacks work with your body and your glucose health.
Curated & reviewed by: Kayce Sol
MA, RN, BSN, CDCES
MA, RN, BSN, CDCES
Kayce Sol is a registered nurse and certified diabetes care and education specialist.
