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These Vanilla Peanut Butter Bliss Balls only require 6 ingredients and are so easy to make! They are soft, chewy and deliciously packed with protein, fiber and nutrients! These no-bake energy protein balls are customizable and perfect for snacking on the go, as a post-workout nibble, or a healthy dessert!

Straight on shot of a white bowl filled with Vanilla Bliss Balls with a wooden spoon of protein powder next to the bowl and a jar of cashews and small glass milk container blurred in the background.

Update: This recipe was originally published in June 2017. I edited the photos and updated the post below to include more information about these protein balls. Plus, I added a recipe video to show you how easy these vanilla energy bites are to make! 

Hey, friends! T-minus nine days until the official start of summer! And, you know what that means: bathing suit season. I’m not sure if that deserves a ‘woot-woot’ or a ‘womp-womp’. I’ll be brazen and say it deserves a little bit of both.

I mean, so much yes to lounging poolside, frolicking by the ocean and soaking up the summer sun! But, yikes to the actual bathing suits.

Unfortunately, you just can’t have summer without itsy-bitsy, teenie-weenie, yellow polka-dot bikinis. And, I don’t know about you, but I’m also going to need all the snacks. Pool, ocean or lakeside, it doesn’t matter. I need all the snacks when I’m lounging about!

So, today we are going to bust out some homemade bites perfect for both the season and your waistline! High Five!

Overhead shot of all the ingredients needed to make Bliss Balls neatly organized in the bowl of a food processor - photo of step 3 of the recipe.

Table of Contents

About these vanilla peanut butter bliss balls

I really wanted to name these easy homemade honey nut vanilla peanut butter no bake protein energy blissfully delicious bites. But, that felt just a tad long-winded. So, I decided to keep the title small and sweet – just like these bites of heavenly bliss.

These bodacious bites are soft, yet dense and chewy with a marvelous melt in your mouth feel.

Plus, they are loaded with flavor, think: smooth vanilla, salty nuts, creamy peanut butter and subtly sweet honey! And, they are jam packed with protein, fiber and healthy fats, which makes these bites perfect for when hunger strikes. Because, being hangry is never a good look.

But, best of all, these little balls of bliss are chock full of good for you, nutrient rich ingredients, so you can keep up with those lofty beach body goals! 💪

Did I mention that these bites are packed with protein? I’m talking, jam-up-jelly-tight PACKED with PROTEIN. Not only do you get a healthy dose of plant-based protein from the nuts, but you also get a huge BOOST from the protein powder!

And, if all of the aforementioned deliciousness wasn’t enough, these vanilla energy bites are also a total breeze to prepare! NO baking, NO whisking, and absolutely NO stand-mixing! Just you, a food processor (or a bowl!), 6 ingredients and some good ole fashioned rolling with your hands.

Angled up close photo of the 'dough' for bliss balls pulsed together in the bowl of a food processor.

What are bliss balls?

Bliss balls, also referred to as energy bites or protein balls, are a nutrient-rich, healthy snack. They are typically made with energy-boosting ingredients and ‘super foods’ to provide both protein and sustained energy.

There are many versions and flavors of protein balls, ranging from paleo and vegan friendly, to tropical coconut and rich chocolate! However, all of them are usually made with a combination of complex carbs, plant-based protein, dietary fiber and healthy fats.

Chewy in texture, deliciously sweet and blissfully delicious, bliss balls are the perfect energy-filled snack! They are made without any refined sugars and make a wonderful, guilt-free pre- and post-workout nibble, mid-day treat or no-bake dessert!

Ingredients in vanilla protein balls

  • Nuts: For these protein balls, I used cashews. However, you can use any nut you would like or have on hand! They provide a bit of moisture along with nutty flavor, plant-based protein and healthy fats!
  • Hazelnut Meal: Also known as hazelnut flour, it is made from whole raw hazelnuts and a good source of fiber and vitamin E. It is a delicious low carbohydrate and naturally gluten-free alternative to flour. Along with the nuts (listed above), it serves as a base ingredient.  It provides delectable texture and wonderful flavor to the bites.
  • Nut Butter: You can use any variety of nut butter you would like, such as peanut butter or almond butter. The butter helps bind the balls and adds healthy fats. One tip if you are mixing the bites with a spoon versus a food processor. Look for a nut butter that is runny or drippy versus solid. If you use a solid or dry nut butter it will be harder to mix the bliss balls together.
  • Protein Powder: While I use vanilla whey protein powder, you can use any flavor you like! The powder increases the protein content of the bites. Plus, it’s a fun way to experiment with different flavors!
  • Honey: Honey adds a touch of natural sweetness and also helps bind the balls together. If you would like a vegan option, you can substitute maple syrup.
  • Vanilla Extract (optional): Vanilla extract is totally optional. However, it enhances all the flavors in the protein balls!

Recipe variations

This bliss ball recipe is flexible and can easily be adapted! I encourage you to make these your own, and use whatever ingredients you have on hand or your family loves!

  1. Nuts: If you aren’t a fan of cashews, you can substitute any nut you would like. Hazelnuts, almonds, or peanuts are all delicious.
  2. Hazelnut Meal: While the recipe calls for hazelnut meal, I have used almond meal or almond flour before and it is just as delicious! It can be used as a 1:1 substitution.
  3. Nut Butter: You can substitute any variety of nut butter for the peanut butter. Almond, cashew or a blend of nut butters work well! Just make sure it is creamy in texture and the no-stir variety.
  4. Protein Powder: Use your favorite protein powder flavor, or mix things up! Banana, coconut or birthday cake would be amazing!!
  5. Sweetener: You can swap out the honey for a different liquid sweetener! Maple syrup, date syrup or rice malt syrup are all fantastic options!
Close-up angled shot of angled shot of Vanilla Energy Balls in a bowl lined with parchment paper and a blurred milk glass in the background.

How to make no bake bliss balls

Energy bites are incredibly easy and only require 10 minutes of hands on preparation!

(Scroll down for the detailed measurements and instructions in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page.)

  1. Pulse cashews:  Place cashews in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until they resemble coarse sand.
  2. Add remaining ingredients and pulse:  Add the remaining ingredients. Pulse the mixture until it is thoroughly combined and comes together. The mixture should resemble a dough-like paste.
  3. Roll into balls:  Use your hands to scoop out 1 tablespoon of mixture. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Transfer balls to a parchment paper lined baking pan.
  4. Freeze:  Transfer pan to the freezer. Freeze for 20 minutes.
  5. Serve:  Sprinkle the bliss balls with protein powder if desired. Enjoy!

Step by step photos: making this recipe at home

Overhead photo collage of how to make vanilla bliss balls step by step with written instructions on each step.

FAQs: frequently asked questions

How to make bliss energy bites without a food processor?

No food processor? No problem! These bliss balls are incredibly easy to make without any special equipment or the aid of a food processor!

To make bliss balls without a food processor:

  1. Crush the nuts: Place the nuts in a heavy-duty resealable bag. Place the bag on a hard, flat surface and smooth the nuts out into an even layer. Use a rolling pin, the flat-side of a meat mallet, or another similar object to crush them. It’ll take multiple whacks, but use this as an opportunity to get out any pent up aggression. Continue to crush the nuts until they are ground and resemble coarse flour.
  2. Mix ingredients: Transfer crushed nuts to a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add the hazelnut meal, peanut butter and protein powder. Stir together. Add in the vanilla and honey. Stir again. If mixture is hard to stir, use your hands to mix well.
  3. Proceed with recipe as directed – rolling mixture into balls and freezing.

Are bliss balls healthy?

Energy protein bites are made with good-for-you ingredients and packed with nutritional benefits!

Protein ball health benefits:

  • Protein: Bliss balls are are an excellent source of natural protein! These bites are full of both plant-based protein from nuts and complete protein from the whey protein powder. Protein helps improve muscle protein synthesis and promotes the growth of lean muscle mass.
  • Fiber: Both the nuts and hazelnut meal provide a good amount of fiber. Fiber helps keep you feeling fuller for longer and also promotes a healthy gut!
  • Healthy Fats: These bliss balls contain a good amount of healthy fats from the nuts and nut butter. Healthy fats provide fuel for your body and help you absorb nutrients, such as fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E and K) and antioxidants.
  • Antioxidants: Hazelnut meal and ‘high-quality’ honey combined provide a significant amount of antioxidants. Antioxidants help limit damage caused by free radicals and protect the body from oxidative stress.
  • Carbohydrates: Each protein ball contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates. Carbs are your body’s primary source of energy, which makes these bites perfect when you need a midday pick me up or pre-workout snack!
Angled Shot of No Bake Bliss Energy Balls in a bowl lined with parchment paper and a hand lifting one bite out of the bowl

Serving vanilla protein bites

Vanilla bliss bites make the perfect grab-and-go snack; however, you can also serve them as a part of a breakfast, brunch, or dessert spread.

  • Dip in chocolate: For a classic and indulgent treat, dip your vanilla bites in melted chocolate sauce. You can use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate, and you can even add a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.
  • Drizzle with caramel: If chocolate isn’t your thing, salted caramel sauce is excellent here.
  • Roll in nuts: Toast your favorite raw nuts for savory flavor or candy nuts for sweet flavor. Crush them in a bag with a rolling pin and roll the bites in the nuts for amazing flavor and texture.
  • Dust with flavor: Keep things simple and dust the top of your peanut butter bliss balls with cocoa powder, confectioner’s powder, or edible gold flakes.

Serving and pairing suggestions

Straight on shot of a white bowl filled with Honey Nut Bliss Bites with a bite taken out of the protein bite in focus and a wooden spoon of protein powder, a jar of cashews and small glass milk container blurred in the background.

Storing energy bliss bites

Peanut butter energy balls can be stored in an airtight container on the counter, or in the refrigerator or freezer.  The main goal is to prevent moisture from coming into contact with the energy balls to keep them fresh!

Since they are made with shelf-stable ingredients they do not need to be refrigerated and they will keep well at room temperature for up to 3 days.

To extend the shelf life of vanilla protein balls, refrigerating is recommended.  Bliss balls will dry out if stored at room temperature for too many days.  Protein bites stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator will last for up to 1-2 weeks.

Freezing instructions

Peanut butter energy balls freeze beautifully!

To freeze, place energy balls in an airtight container or freezer-safe resealable bag. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To use, thaw the bites in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying!

Up close, straight on photo of a Bliss Ball with a bite taken out to showcase the soft and chewy inside texture of the ball.

Healthy, delicious and packed with nutritious goodies, these Vanilla Peanut Butter Bliss Balls are a snack you can feel good about eating.

Until Thursday friends, cheers – to getting your healthy summer snack on!

XOXO

Cheyanne

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More healthy recipes for snack time!

Overhead shot of a white bowl filled with No Bake Honey Nut Vanilla Bliss Bites with a wooden spoon of protein powder next to the bowl.

Vanilla Peanut Butter Bliss Balls

4.88 from 16 votes
Author: Cheyanne Holzworth
Total Time: 10 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 18 bliss balls
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
These Vanilla Peanut Butter Bliss Balls only require 6 ingredients and are so easy to make! They are soft, chewy and deliciously packed with protein, fiber and nutrients! These no-bake energy bites are customizable and perfect for snacking on the go or as a healthy dessert!
Recipe can be scaled up or down by using the slider if you hover your mouse over the number of Servings.

Equipment

  • Food Processor
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Sheet pan

Ingredients 

Instructions

  • Line a small baking sheet or plate with parchment paper. Set aside.
  • Pulse cashews: In the bowl of a food processor, add the cashews. Pulse until they are finely chopped and resemble coarse ground flour. (SEE NOTES if you don't have a food processor.)
  • Add remaining ingredients & pulse: Add the remaining ingredients. Pulse the mixture until it is thoroughly combined and comes together. The mixture should resemble a dough-like paste.
  • Roll into balls: Use your hands or an ice cream scoop and portion out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture. Roll into a ball (about 1 to 1 ½-inches) and transfer to the prepared baking sheet. Repeat rolling until all the mixture is used.
  • Freeze: Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and freeze for 20 minutes.
  • Serve: Lightly roll the protein bites in more vanilla protein powder. Eat and enjoy!
  • Storage: Store bliss balls in an airtight container the refrigerator for up to 1 week or the freezer for up to 3 months.

Video

Notes

These bites are highly customizable, so I encourage you to make them your own! (See post above for full list)
  1. Nuts: If you aren’t a fan of cashews, you can substitute any nut you would like.  Hazelnuts, almonds, or peanuts would all be delicious.
  2. Hazelnut Meal: While the recipe calls for hazelnut meal, I have used almond meal before and it is just as delightful!
  3. Nut Butter: You can substitute any nut butter for the peanut butter, just make sure it is creamy and the no-stir variety.  I used reduced fat peanut butter.
  4. Vegan-option: If you are vegan, feel free to use maple syrup instead of honey!
To make bliss balls without a food processor:
  1. Crush the nuts: Place the nuts in a heavy-duty resealable bag. Place the bag on a hard, flat surface and smooth the nuts out into an even layer. Use a rolling pin, the flat-side of a meat mallet, or another similar object to crush them. It’ll take multiple whacks, but use this as an opportunity to get out any pent up aggression. Continue to crush the nuts until they are ground and resemble coarse flour.
  2. Mix ingredients: Transfer crushed nuts to a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add the hazelnut meal, peanut butter and protein powder. Stir together. Add in the vanilla and honey. Stir again. If mixture is hard to stir, use your hands to mix well.
  3. Proceed with recipe as directed – rolling mixture into balls and freezing.
Nutritional information is an approximation based upon 18 servings.  Exact nutritional information will depend upon the brand and precise measurement of ingredients used.

Nutrition

Calories: 96kcal    Carbohydrates: 5g    Protein: 4g    Fat: 7g    Saturated Fat: 1g    Cholesterol: 4mg    Sodium: 38mg    Potassium: 66mg    Sugar: 3g    Vitamin C: 0.2mg    Calcium: 20mg    Iron: 0.5mg
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American

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