These peanut butter protein balls are so easy to make and perfect for a post workout snack or mid day pick me up! With 7 grams of protein per serving and just a few pantry staple ingredients, this is the perfect healthy snack.
Anyone else an avid snacker? I always like to have quick things on hand for when the hunger really strikes and I don’t feel like whipping up anything elaborate.
In come these peanut butter protein balls! They have 7 grams of protein per serving, and you can change up the flavor by using a different nut butter, chocolate protein powder in place of vanilla, adding in some coconut or chopped nuts!
Plus, they’re the perfect recipe for when you’re craving something sweet but feel like you may have indulged in one too many cookies last night and want something healthy.
Anyway, these healthy protein balls are made with just a few pantry staple ingredients and are perfect for a mid day snack, school lunches or even a healthy dessert. Anything goes! If you love this recipe try my protein banana bread next!
Key Ingredients
Oats: I like using all quick oats because it creates a softer texture, but you can use rolled oats if that is what you have on hand. And yes, you can eat raw oats! That’s what we’re doing with overnight oats after all!
Peanut Butter: I love using creamy peanut butter, but crunchy works well if that’s what you have too. I suggest an unsweetened and unsalted variety.
Maple Syrup: You can use maple syrup or honey to sweeten this recipe, but maple syrup is a bit easier to stir than honey.
I made this recipe with the intention of just being able to mix all ingredients in a bowl, so I do not recommend using dates to sweeten.
Flax Seeds: We’ll use ground flax seeds for these protein bites which not only work to absorb any excess moisture and hold the bites together, but they add a bit of protein as well! You can also use chia seeds if that is what you have on hand.
Protein powder: I like using a vanilla plant-based protein, but you can use whey protein as well, either chocolate or vanilla will work!
Chocolate Chips: You will need chocolate chips for the protein balls themselves, and some extra to melt on the stove and make a drizzle on top.
Cinnamon: For a bit of extra flavor. Feel free to omit or add other spices of your choice.
How to make peanut butter protein balls
In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients aside from the chocolate chips.
Mix with a rubber spatula until well combined. Because of the nature of peanut butter, it can take a few minutes to really get it well mixed up, but if you need to use your (clean) hands, don’t hesitate!
As you’re making these, if you find the protein balls aren’t sticking together, it’s likely because your dough doesn’t have enough moisture. If it seems too dry, add in 1 tbsp of maple syrup or even almond milk at a time until the dough molds together better.
Add in the chocolate chips and mix together until combined. Try to really smoosh the chocolate chips in there to make sure they’re well combined.
Use a cookie scoop or a regular spoon and roll into balls with about 1 1/2 tbsp of “dough.” It helps to use your hands to really mold the ingredients together.
If you want to use the chocolate drizzle, combine the 1-2 teaspoons of coconut oil and 1/2 cup chocolate chips in a small bowl and microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then microwave an additional 20-30 seconds and stir until melted
Use a spoon to drizzle over the protein balls. Enjoy!
How to store and freeze
Once prepared, these peanut butter protein balls will keep in the fridge for 1 week. Keep them in an air tight container so they don’t dry out!
This recipe is also freezer friendly! Store them in an air tight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Let them thaw at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before eating or serving.
Are protein balls healthy?
It totally depends on the recipe! This recipe is made with incredibly simple ingredients and are full of healthy fats, protein, fiber and low in sugar.
Generally, you want to look for a recipe that has minimal ingredients, no refined sugars and a good balance of fats and protein. This recipe fits the bill so I would definitely call them healthy.
Why are they crumbly and falling apart?
Certain protein powders soak up more liquid than others and some peanut butters are a bit chalkier than others.
If you notice your mixture is a bit too dry or crumbly, just add in 1-2 teaspoons of non-dairy milk until a slightly more moist consistency is achieved.
Want more snacks? Try these next!
- Chocolate Chip Energy Bites
- Blueberry Muffins
- Fluffy Vegan Banana Bread
- No Bake Granola Bars
- Protein Acai Bowl
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5 from 11 votes
Peanut Butter Protein Balls
by: claire cary
These peanut butter protein balls are so easy to make and perfect for a post workout snack or mid day pick me up! With 7 grams of protein per serving and just a few pantry staple ingredients, this is the perfect healthy snack.
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Prep: 10 minutes mins
Cook: 0 minutes mins
Total: 10 minutes mins
16
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy unsalted peanut butter
- ⅔ cup quick oats
- ⅓ cup vanilla protein powder
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 2 tablespoons ground flax seeds
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips
US Customary – Metric
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients aside from the chocolate chips.
Mix with a rubber spatula until well combined. Because of the nature of peanut butter, it can take a few minutes to really get it well mixed up, but if you need to use your (clean) hands, don't hesitate!
If the dough seems too dry, add in a bit more maple syrup or even a splash of milk or extra peanut butter to soften it a bit. On the other hand, if the mixture is too wet, add in a bit of extra oats.
Add in the chocolate chips and mix together until combined.
Use a cookie scoop or a regular spoon and roll into balls with about 1 1/2 tbsp of “dough.” Use your hands to kind of smoosh the ingredients together and then roll into a ball in the palm of your hand.
Place in the fridge to set for about an hour. Enjoy!
Notes
You can use chunky nut butter if you like, I just prefer creamy!
Serving: 1protein ball / Calories: 149kcal / Carbohydrates: 11g / Protein: 7g / Fat: 10g / Fiber: 2g / Sugar: 6g
