Gather all your ingredients: oats, cocoa powder, honey, nut butter, vanilla, and any add-ins you like. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to set the fudge balls.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats and cocoa powder. Stir until evenly mixed, and your kitchen smells rich and chocolatey.
Add honey, nut butter, and vanilla to the bowl. Use a spatula or spoon to fold everything together, pressing and mixing until the mixture becomes thick, sticky, and slightly glossy.
If you’re using add-ins like dried fruit or nuts, fold them in now, evenly distributing throughout the mixture.
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and gently roll it between your palms into 1-inch balls. The mixture should feel sticky but manageable, and you can wet your hands slightly if it's sticking too much.
Place each ball onto the prepared parchment-lined sheet. Once all are formed, press them lightly to flatten slightly if desired.
Chill the fudge balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. As they cool, they firm up, develop a chewy texture, and the flavors meld beautifully.
After chilling, the fudge balls should hold their shape firmly but still feel soft and chewy when pressed. If you want, roll them in shredded coconut or chopped nuts for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Enjoy your homemade no-bake fudge balls directly from the fridge or at room temperature for a softer bite. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
