by Caleigh O’Toole

For me, baking was always an outlet that could be used to destress, find joy, and express creativity. After coming to college and having to leave baking behind due to the lack of resources, it felt like something was missing from my normal routine. I thought about recipes that would be perfect for dorm room baking, and more importantly, not become a fire hazard. With that, I gathered the ingredients to make my Aunt’s peanut butter protein balls. Not only is this recipe perfect for minimal mess in a small dorm, but it’s also no-bake and a healthier option for all of the sweet-tooth students out there like myself. 

Ingredients (makes about 26-30 balls)

• 1 ½ to 2 cups old fashioned rolled oats, more or less as needed 
• 1 to 1 ½ cup creamy peanut butter 
• ½ cup honey 
• ¼ cup of mini chocolate chips

Directions

After measuring out each of your selected ingredients, pour them all into a large mixing bowl. Use a spatula covered in non-stick oil, or clean hands, and begin to mix together the ingredients.

Once fully incorporated, line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper. Grab a decent teaspoon size of the mixture and roll into a firm ball. Place onto the baking sheet and freeze until the balls are hard.

After frozen, you can minimize space by placing the balls into a container to store in the freezer (if you prefer firmer snacks) or the fridge (if you like them a little more chewy).

Additions 

If you are feeling a little extra adventurous you can add in M&M’s (I prefer the minis), rice krispies, or a pinch of salt or cinnamon. If you prefer an even healthier option, try adding in ¼ cup chia seeds, ¼ cup flaxseed, or a scoop of your favorite protein powder. 

Note: This recipe was adapted from Jamielyn Nye’s “No-Bake Energy Balls” from iheartnaptime.net