Description
These homemade protein balls are a delicious and nutritious snack that’s perfect for boosting your energy. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, they are ideal for anyone looking to fuel their body, especially after a workout or as a mid-day snack. The beauty of protein balls lies in their versatility – you can easily customize them to suit your taste by adding different flavorings or mix-ins. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a snack that is both tasty and satisfying!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup rolled oats – A healthy source of fiber and complex carbohydrates. Oats help provide energy and are perfect for keeping you feeling full.
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (or almond butter) – Nut butters provide healthy fats and protein, making them essential for both flavor and texture.
- 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option) – Natural sweeteners that add a touch of sweetness without refined sugars.
- 1/4 cup protein powder (whey or plant-based) – The primary source of protein in these balls, helping to support muscle repair and satiety.
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional) – For added sweetness and indulgence.
- 1/4 cup chia seeds or flaxseeds – A fantastic source of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a subtle, sweet flavor to complement the other ingredients.
- Pinch of salt – Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the honey.
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, chia seeds (or flaxseeds), and a pinch of salt. Stir them together until evenly mixed.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add in the peanut butter (or almond butter), honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir everything together until the mixture reaches a dough-like consistency. If the mixture is too dry, add a little more honey or peanut butter; if it’s too wet, add more oats or protein powder.
- Fold in Add-ins: If you’re using mini chocolate chips or other add-ins, fold them into the mixture now. Be creative and add dried fruit, seeds, or nuts for extra flavor and texture!
- Shape the Protein Balls: Use your hands or a small ice cream scoop to roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture feels sticky, wet your hands lightly with water to make it easier to roll.
- Chill: Place the protein balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to allow them to set and firm up.
- Serve and Store: Once set, your protein balls are ready to be enjoyed! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
Notes
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with the ingredients to match your preferences. Add a scoop of cocoa powder for a chocolate version, or use different nut butters (like cashew or sunflower seed butter) for variety.
- Sweeteners: You can swap honey for agave nectar, maple syrup, or stevia, depending on your dietary preferences.
- Vegan-Friendly: Use plant-based protein powder and maple syrup to keep the recipe vegan.
- Storage: These protein balls can be kept in the fridge for about 7 days or frozen for longer-term storage. Freezing them in individual portions makes them easy to grab and go.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 150-180 kcal
- Sugar: 5-7g
- Sodium: 60-80mg
- Fat: 10-12g
- Saturated Fat: 1-2g
- Carbohydrates: 12-14g
- Fiber: 3-4g
- Protein: 6-8g
- Cholesterol: 0-5mg (if using plant-based ingredients)