Protein balls are the perfect snack for those on the go, offering a boost of energy and satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt. These bite-sized treats are packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them ideal for a pre-workout snack or a midday pick-me-up. Here’s a simple recipe to make your own protein balls at home.

Protein Balls Recipe

Protein Balls Ingredients

• 1 cup of rolled oats
• 1/2 cup of natural peanut butter (or any nut butter of your choice)
• 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup of protein powder (vanilla or chocolate works well)
• 1/4 cup of flaxseed meal or chia seeds
• 1/3 cup of dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs
• 1/4 cup of shredded coconut (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt

Protein Balls Instructions:

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, flaxseed meal or chia seeds, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

2. Add the Wet Ingredients: Add the peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir until the mixture becomes thick and well combined.

3. Fold in the Extras: Fold in the dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs and shredded coconut if using. Mix until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

4. Form the Balls: Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture is too sticky, you can slightly dampen your hands with water to make rolling easier.

5. Chill and Set: Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set. Once firm, you can transfer them to an airtight container.

6. Enjoy: Your protein balls are ready to eat! Store them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.

Protein Balls Nutrition Details

(Per Serving – 1 Protein Ball, Recipe makes approximately 12-15 balls)

• Calories: 120-150 kcal
• Protein: 6-8g
• Carbohydrates: 12-14g
• Fat: 5-7g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 5-6g

These protein balls are not only delicious but also provide a balanced snack option that can be tailored to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy them as part of a healthy lifestyle!

Variations of Protein Balls Recipes

Protein balls are a versatile snack that can be customized to fit various dietary needs and preferences. Here are detailed variations for different types of protein balls, each tailored to specific ingredients or dietary requirements.

Protein Balls Recipe Without Protein Powder

If you prefer to skip the protein powder, you can still make delicious and nutritious protein balls. Here’s how:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of rolled oats
• 1/2 cup of almond butter (or any nut butter)
• 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup of flaxseed meal or chia seeds
• 1/3 cup of dark chocolate chips or raisins
• 1/4 cup of shredded coconut (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: Combine the rolled oats, flaxseed meal or chia seeds, and a pinch of sea salt in a mixing bowl.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients: Add the almond butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Fold in Extras: Stir in the dark chocolate chips or raisins and shredded coconut.
4. Form the Balls: Roll the mixture into small balls and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Info:

• Calories: 110-130 kcal
• Protein: 3-5g
• Carbohydrates: 10-12g
• Fat: 6-8g
• Fiber: 2-3g

Protein Balls Recipe with Dates

Dates are a natural sweetener that adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to your protein balls. This variation is naturally sweetened and doesn’t require additional honey or syrup.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of Medjool dates, pitted
• 1/2 cup of oats
• 1/2 cup of almond or cashew butter
• 1/4 cup of chia seeds
• 1/3 cup of chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or cashews)
• 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt

Instructions:

1. Blend Dates: In a food processor, blend the dates until they form a paste.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add the oats, nut butter, chia seeds, chopped nuts, cinnamon, and salt to the date paste. Blend until everything is well mixed.
3. Form the Balls: Roll the mixture into small balls. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Info:

• Calories: 130-150 kcal
• Protein: 4-6g
• Carbohydrates: 18-20g
• Fat: 6-8g
• Fiber: 3-4g

Protein Balls with Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is a classic ingredient that pairs wonderfully with oats and other add-ins. This recipe is simple and packed with protein and healthy fats.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of rolled oats
• 1/2 cup of natural peanut butter
• 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup of flaxseed meal
• 1/3 cup of dark chocolate chips
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine the rolled oats, flaxseed meal, and salt in a mixing bowl.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
3. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Add the chocolate chips to the mixture.
4. Form Balls: Roll the mixture into balls and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Info:

• Calories: 140-160 kcal
• Protein: 6-8g
• Carbohydrates: 12-14g
• Fat: 7-9g
• Fiber: 2-3g

Vegetarian Protein Balls Recipe

This vegetarian version uses plant-based protein powder and ingredients that align with a vegetarian diet.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of rolled oats
• 1/2 cup of almond butter
• 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup of plant-based protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)
• 1/4 cup of flaxseed meal or chia seeds
• 1/3 cup of vegan chocolate chips or dried fruit
• 1/4 cup of shredded coconut (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine the rolled oats, protein powder, flaxseed meal, and salt.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the almond butter, honey, and vanilla extract until the mixture is thick and well combined.
3. Fold in Add-ins: Stir in the vegan chocolate chips or dried fruit and shredded coconut if using.
4. Form Balls: Roll into balls and chill before serving.

Nutritional Info:

• Calories: 120-140 kcal
• Protein: 8-10g
• Carbohydrates: 10-12g
• Fat: 6-8g
• Fiber: 2-3g

Chocolate Protein Balls Recipe

Chocolate lovers will adore this variation, which uses cocoa powder and chocolate protein powder for a rich, indulgent treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of rolled oats
• 1/2 cup of chocolate protein powder
• 1/4 cup of cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup of almond butter
• 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup
• 1/3 cup of dark chocolate chips
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the oats, protein powder, cocoa powder, and salt.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the almond butter, honey, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
3. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Stir in the dark chocolate chips.
4. Form Balls: Roll the mixture into balls and chill before serving.

Nutritional Info:

• Calories: 130-150 kcal
• Protein: 8-10g
• Carbohydrates: 10-12g
• Fat: 7-9g
• Fiber: 3-4g

Low-Calorie Protein Balls Recipe

For a lighter option, this recipe uses lower-calorie ingredients while still providing a good amount of protein and flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of rolled oats
• 1/4 cup of powdered peanut butter (like PB2)
• 1/4 cup of honey or low-calorie syrup
• 1/4 cup of protein powder (optional)
• 1/4 cup of chia seeds
• 1/3 cup of unsweetened dried fruit (like cranberries or blueberries)
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine the oats, powdered peanut butter, protein powder (if using), chia seeds, and salt.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the honey or low-calorie syrup and vanilla extract until the mixture is evenly combined.
3. Fold in Dried Fruit: Mix in the unsweetened dried fruit.
4. Form Balls: Roll the mixture into balls and refrigerate before serving.

Nutritional Info:

• Calories: 80-100 kcal
• Protein: 4-6g
• Carbohydrates: 10-12g
• Fat: 2-3g
• Fiber: 2-3g

Each of these variations allows you to tailor the protein balls to your taste preferences and nutritional goals, making them a versatile and satisfying snack option. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and ingredients!

Conclusion

Protein balls are a convenient, customizable, and nutritious snack that can fit into various diets and lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for a quick energy boost, a post-workout treat, or a satisfying snack to curb your sweet tooth, there’s a protein ball recipe for you. From classic peanut butter and chocolate to low-calorie and vegetarian options, these versatile treats offer endless possibilities. Experiment with different ingredients and flavors to find your perfect combination, and enjoy the benefits of a delicious snack that’s both healthy and easy to make. Happy snacking!

Protein Balls Recipe

Freya

Protein balls are the perfect snack for those on the go, offering a boost of energy and satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

chilling time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 4 people

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup of rolled oats
• 1/2 cup of natural peanut butter or any nut butter of your choice
• 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup of protein powder vanilla or chocolate works well
• 1/4 cup of flaxseed meal or chia seeds
• 1/3 cup of dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs
• 1/4 cup of shredded coconut optional
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

 

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, flaxseed meal or chia seeds, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
• Add the peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir until the mixture becomes thick and well combined.
• Fold in the dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs and shredded coconut if using. Mix until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
• Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture is too sticky, you can slightly dampen your hands with water to make rolling easier.
• Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set. Once firm, you can transfer them to an airtight container.
• Your protein balls are ready to eat! Store them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.

Keyword protein balls recipe

FAQ

Can I make protein balls without a food processor?

Yes, you can mix the ingredients by hand in a bowl. Just make sure to chop any nuts or dried fruits finely for better consistency.

How long do protein balls last in the refrigerator?

Protein balls can last up to one week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze protein balls?

Yes, you can freeze protein balls for up to three months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator before eating.

What can I use instead of honey or maple syrup?

For a natural sweetener, you can substitute honey or maple syrup with agave nectar, date syrup, or even mashed bananas.

Are protein balls suitable for kids?

Absolutely! Protein balls are a healthy snack option for kids, just ensure that the ingredients used are age-appropriate and allergy-safe.

Can I make protein balls gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free oats and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What is the best protein powder to use in protein balls?

The best protein powder depends on your taste and dietary needs. You can use whey, plant-based, or even collagen protein powder, depending on your preference.