Introduction

If you’re craving a sweet, protein-packed treat that won’t sabotage your Weight Watchers (WW) points, then these Weight Watchers Peanut Butter Balls are the perfect solution. These delicious little snacks combine the richness of peanut butter with the sweetness of natural ingredients, making them both satisfying and nutritious. The best part? They’re light on SmartPoints while still giving you that indulgent taste you crave.

These peanut butter balls are incredibly versatile, making them a great snack or dessert for any time of the day. Whether you’re following the Blue Plan, Green Plan, or Purple Plan, these protein-packed bites fit perfectly within your daily SmartPoints allowance. Easy to make, store, and serve, they can become a staple in your weekly meal prep.

In this post, we’ll break down the full recipe, ingredient substitutions, tips for perfecting your peanut butter balls, and their nutritional value. Whether you’re trying to stay within your points or simply looking for a healthier snack, these Weight Watchers Peanut Butter Balls offer a balanced, satisfying option. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients for Weight Watchers Peanut Butter Balls

This recipe for WW Peanut Butter Balls calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that work in perfect harmony to create a tasty treat. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Peanut Butter Balls:

  • 1 cup natural peanut butter (smooth or crunchy, as per your preference)
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (you can use sugar-free syrup for fewer calories)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional, for extra texture)
  • 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (for added fiber and omega-3 fatty acids)
  • 1/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (make sure they’re gluten-free if necessary)
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds (for extra fiber and healthy fats)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (to balance the sweetness)

For the Chocolate Coating (Optional but Recommended):

  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (preferably 70% cacao or higher for fewer sugars)
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil (to help the chocolate melt smoothly)

These ingredients work together to create a balanced mix of protein, fiber, healthy fats, and a touch of natural sweetness. By using healthier alternatives such as natural peanut butter and honey, you can enjoy the treat without the guilt.

Instructions for Making Weight Watchers Peanut Butter Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture

To start, place the 1 cup of peanut butter into a large mixing bowl. Ensure that the peanut butter is the natural kind with no added sugars or preservatives. The smooth or crunchy texture depends on your preference, but smooth peanut butter will make the mixture easier to roll into balls.

Next, add 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup to the peanut butter. These natural sweeteners provide just the right amount of sweetness without overloading the recipe with refined sugars. If you’re trying to reduce sugar intake, feel free to use sugar-free syrup for a lower-calorie option.

Now, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture. This ingredient enhances the flavor and adds a subtle aromatic sweetness to the balls. Stir until well-combined.

Step 2: Mix in the Dry Ingredients

To create the perfect consistency for the peanut butter balls, you’ll need to add some dry ingredients. Begin by adding 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the mixture. This gives the peanut butter balls a chocolatey undertone, making them even more indulgent while remaining low in calories.

Add 1/4 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut to the bowl for texture. This ingredient is optional but adds a delightful crunch and a tropical flair to your peanut butter balls. For those who prefer a smooth texture, feel free to skip the coconut.

Next, mix in 1/4 cup of ground flaxseed. This superfood is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, making your peanut butter balls even more nutritious. It also helps bind the mixture together, so it’s essential for creating the right consistency.

Add 1/4 cup of old-fashioned rolled oats. Oats help give the peanut butter balls some structure and make them more filling. Use certified gluten-free oats if you have any dietary restrictions.

Finish the dry ingredient mix by adding 1 tablespoon of chia seeds. Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber and healthy fats, making your peanut butter balls even more satisfying. Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavor of the ingredients.

Step 3: Combine and Form the Dough

Now that all of the ingredients are in the bowl, it’s time to combine them. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together thoroughly. You may find that the dough is a bit thick, which is perfectly normal. If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash of water, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches a moldable consistency.

Once the mixture is well combined, it’s time to roll it into balls. Take small portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms to form 1-inch balls. You should be able to make about 16-20 balls, depending on the size you choose.

Step 4: Chill the Peanut Butter Balls

Place the peanut butter balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Once all the balls are formed, transfer the tray to the refrigerator and let the balls chill for at least 30-60 minutes. Chilling helps them firm up, making them easier to handle and giving them a great texture.

Step 5: Optional Chocolate Coating

For an extra layer of indulgence, you can coat the peanut butter balls in dark chocolate. This step is entirely optional but highly recommended for those who enjoy the combination of peanut butter and chocolate.

To make the chocolate coating, melt 1/4 cup of dark chocolate chips with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil in the microwave or over a double boiler. Stir the mixture until smooth and glossy.

Dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, coating it evenly. After dipping, place the chocolate-covered balls back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle the balls with a pinch of sea salt for a sweet-salty contrast.

Once all the balls are coated, return them to the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes to let the chocolate set.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once the peanut butter balls are ready, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks. For longer storage, you can also freeze them for up to 2-3 months. To serve, simply remove them from the fridge or freezer and enjoy! These peanut butter balls are perfect for a quick snack or a dessert after dinner.

These peanut butter balls are also ideal for meal prep. You can make a batch at the start of the week and have them ready whenever you need a quick snack or pick-me-up. They’re portable, easy to store, and always hit the spot when cravings strike.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Ball)

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content for one peanut butter ball (without the chocolate coating). The numbers may vary slightly depending on the specific brands or substitutions you use:

  • Calories: 130
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 9g
    • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
    • Fiber: 3g
    • Net Carbs: 9g
  • Sugar: 7g (from honey or maple syrup)
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Calcium: 4% of the DV
  • Iron: 6% of the DV
  • Potassium: 4% of the DV

WW SmartPoints

The SmartPoints for Weight Watchers Peanut Butter Balls will vary depending on the ingredients you use, particularly the type of sweetener and whether or not you coat them in chocolate. Here’s an approximation:

  • Blue Plan: 3 SmartPoints per ball (without chocolate coating)
  • Green Plan: 4 SmartPoints per ball (without chocolate coating)
  • Purple Plan: 2 SmartPoints per ball (without chocolate coating)

For those who choose to dip the balls in chocolate:

  • Blue Plan: 5 SmartPoints per ball (with chocolate coating)
  • Green Plan: 5 SmartPoints per ball (with chocolate coating)
  • Purple Plan: 4 SmartPoints per ball (with chocolate coating)

Why Weight Watchers Peanut Butter Balls Are a Great Choice

  1. Low in SmartPoints: These peanut butter balls are a fantastic WW-friendly snack, with just 2-5 SmartPoints per ball depending on your WW plan and whether you opt for the chocolate coating. They fit easily into any daily SmartPoints allowance.
  2. High in Protein and Fiber: With ingredients like peanut butter, flaxseeds, oats, and chia seeds, these peanut butter balls are not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making them a filling snack to help curb hunger between meals.
  3. Guilt-Free Indulgence: You can enjoy the rich, creamy taste of peanut butter and the sweetness of honey or maple syrup without feeling guilty. These balls satisfy your sweet tooth without loading you up with extra calories or added sugars.
  4. Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you can omit the oats and sweeteners or substitute with sugar-free alternatives.
  5. Convenient and Easy to Make: These peanut butter balls are simple to make with just a few ingredients. You don’t need any special equipment, and the recipe can easily be doubled or halved to fit your needs.
  6. Versatile: These peanut butter balls make a great snack, a pre-workout energy bite, or even a dessert to satisfy a sweet craving. Their portability and long shelf-life also make them an excellent option for meal prep.

Conclusion

Weight Watchers Peanut Butter Balls are the perfect blend of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a batch of these energy-packed snacks that will keep you satisfied throughout the day without derailing your Weight Watchers journey.

Low in SmartPoints, high in fiber and protein, and incredibly easy to make, these peanut butter balls are sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just looking for a sweet treat, this recipe is a must-try for anyone on the WW program.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the perfect balance of indulgence and wellness!