Protein balls are a quick, easy, and nutritious way to refuel while satisfying your sweet tooth. No bake protein balls are packed with flavor and crunch with ingredients like oats, peanut butter, chocolate chips, and protein powder. Enjoy them as an energizing post-workout snack or an anytime treat.
For even more healthy snacks, try this super filling Fruit and Granola Parfait and this tasty Mixed Berry Smoothie Bowls recipe.
Jump to:
- Why We Love This Protein Balls Recipe:
- Ingredients you need:
- How to Make Protein Balls:
- Alternatives and Variations:
- Pro-Tips:
- Storing:
- FAQ:
- More Nutritious Recipes to Try
- 📖 Recipe
- Be sure to tag me on Instagram or Facebook when you make this Protein Ball recipe! I would love to see your creation, and give you a shoutout!
Homemade protein balls are addictingly good and good for you too! Usually, recipes touted as healthy, lack in the flavor department but these peanut butter protein balls are definitely an exception. They are soft, chewy, and taste like cookie dough.
So skip the processed snacks and the expensive protein bars because these energy bites are the perfect healthy snack!
Why We Love This Protein Balls Recipe:
A Healthy Treat! This post-workout snack provides energy and will refuel your muscles with over 30 grams of protein. They are super filling because they're rich in fiber, full of healthy fats, and made without butter or flour.
Great on the Go! These are the perfect snack. Make them ahead of time and grab them as you head out the door.
Easy to Make! No bake protein balls only use 6 ingredients, and do not require an oven or a food processor. Simply combine the ingredients and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes.
Energy packed! These are literally energy balls because of all of the carbs and protein. Each of these energy bites will keep you satiated and energized for hours.
Super Versatile! Mix and match ingredients to find your favorite flavor combination. I have some suggestions below!
Ingredients you need:
- Oats: Raw rolled oats are best because they are soft and chewy. You can also use old fashioned oats for this protein ball recipe.
- Natural peanut butter: Use any nut or seed butter such as almond butter or sunflower butter. Try to use one without added sugar or oil.
- Honey or maple syrup: Either natural sweetener will work.
- Shredded Coconut: Use an unsweetened variety.
- Chocolate chips: Use dark chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate, or milk chocolate. You can even use mini chocolate chips!
- Vanilla extract: This adds flavor that makes the protein bites a bit tastier.
- Protein powder: Use your preferred protein powder. You can use whey protein powder or plant-based protein powder, depending on your diet. Try chocolate protein powder or vanilla protein powder for added flavor.
Optional Additions:
- Flaxseed or chia seeds: Both are excellent sources of fiber that also help to bind the ingredients.
- Dried fruit: For a boost of sweetness and an even chewier texture, add raisins or dried cranberries.
How to Make Protein Balls:
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, shredded coconut, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and protein powder. Mix well until everything is combined and evenly distributed.
Form Into Balls
Use water to slightly wet your hands. Then use your hands to form small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. If the mixture is too dry, you can add a bit more peanut butter or honey to help the balls stick together. Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined baking tray or plate.
Chill
Refrigerate the protein balls for at least 10 minutes to an hour to help them set and firm up. After that, you can enjoy them immediately or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Alternatives and Variations:
Add-Ins: For variety in flavor and texture try adding dates, chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts), hemp seeds, and spices (like cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice). For chocolate protein balls, add cocoa powder to the mixture.
Vegan: Use maple syrup or agave, plant-based protein powder, and dairy-free chocolate.
Nut-Free: Use seed butter instead of peanut butter. Try sunflower seed butter or pumpkin seed butter.
Pro-Tips:
- Do not use thick peanut butter. Use one that has a wetter consistency so it is easier to manage.
- The type of protein powder used will determine how dry the protein ball mixture is.
- Use a protein powder that you like and have used before because the flavor will affect the overall taste of the bites.
Storing:
Store protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. For even longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat them, take them out about 30 minutes before you plan to enjoy them.
FAQ:
Why are my protein balls dry?
The type of protein powder you use and the consistency of the nut butter will affect how dry or crumbly the protein balls are. The wet ingredients should help mitigate this. But if it is still an issue, add water or plant-based milk in increments of 1 teaspoon to the mixture until it is moist enough.
Can I make protein balls without protein powder?
Absolutely! Simply include other ingredients that contain protein like peanut butter and ground flax seed.
Are protein balls healthy?
Protein balls are definitely a healthy snack option. Enjoy protein balls as part of a balanced diet. Adjust the ingredients based on your dietary needs and preferences.
More Nutritious Recipes to Try
📖 Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup Oats
- ½ cup Natural peanut butter or any nut or seed butter of your choice
- ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
- ½ cup Shredded Coconut unsweetened
- ½ cup Chocolate chips 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 2 scoops of your preferred protein powder
- Optional additions:
- Flaxseed or chia seeds
- Dried fruit
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, shredded coconut, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and protein powder.
- Mix well until everything is combined and evenly distributed.
- Use water to slightly wet your hands. Then use your hands to form small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. If the mixture is too dry, you can add a bit more peanut butter or honey to help the balls stick together.
- Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined baking tray or plate.
- Refrigerate the protein balls at least 10 minutes to an hour to help them set and firm up. After that, you can enjoy them immediately or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Melt some chocolate chips in the microwave and drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of each ball if desired.
Harriet says
Delish