Get your protein fix the delicious way, in these instant protein balls! Easily customizable and with tons of flavor options, I love how they need just 4 base ingredients.
I’m the person who ALWAYS needs a snack between meals to keep hunger at bay. To ensure I remain satisfied and energized, I need some protein, and this is where protein balls come into play!Table of Contents
How to make protein balls
Step 1- Combine ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, mix the dry ingredients together. Add the wet ingredients and stir until combined. Fold through your flavor mix-ins of choice.
Step 2- Roll them into balls. Next, using your hands (or a mini cookie scoop), roll out balls, place them on a parchment paper lined plate, and refrigerate them for five minutes, to firm up.
For the flavor variations, make the basic base recipe first. Then, fold through the extra ingredients to change up the flavors.
Monster cookie protein balls
- Protein ball base
- 1/2 cup mini M&M’s or vegan candy buttons
White chocolate cranberry balls
- Protein ball base
- 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsweetened dried cranberries
Chocolate peanut butter balls
- Protein ball base
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
Oatmeal raisin balls
- Protein ball base
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup raisins
Chocolate chip balls
- Protein ball base
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
What are protein balls?
Protein balls are energy bites or bliss balls that have added protein in them, thanks to protein powder. They are typically made with peanut butter and oatmeal and can be flavored in a variety of ways.
Here are some reasons why I love this protein energy balls recipe–
- 4 Ingredients only. Unlike other energy ball recipes, this one only needs four ingredients. Bonus? No butter, no eggs, no oil!
- Ready in 5 minutes. From prep to plate, this entire recipe takes just five minutes.
- It’s easily customizable. Add mini chocolate chips and candy, dip them in chocolate, and fold in some nuts; the possibilities for adding to the mixture are endless.
- Vegan and gluten-free! Yep, these tick both these dietary boxes!
- They have a chewy yet doughy texture, similar to raw cookie dough. Taste-wise, they’re like unbaked oatmeal cookies with a protein twist!
This is a very simple and very short ingredient list. If you’ve made any of my healthy snacks before, you’ve probably got everything on hand!
- Rolled oats– Gives the energy balls a chewy texture. This is a fabulous slow-releasing energy carb.
- Protein powder– The key ingredient giving this recipe the added boost! I prefer using casein or brown rice protein powder (or other plant-based protein powders), but some whey protein powder can work.
- Peanut butter– Hold the balls together, along with providing a rich flavor. See below for easy substitutions and nut-free options!
- Maple syrup– Adds sweetness and helps hold the balls together.
- Mix-ins- I’ve included tons below, but a few more: chia seeds, coconut, ground flax seed, and more.
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Can protein balls be refrigerated?
To make lower calorie: Omit the chocolate chips. Refrigerator: Protein balls can be wrapped and stored in the fridge for up to a week in an airtight container. You can’t keep these protein bites out of the fridge for more than a few hours, they will get moldy. Freezer: You can store the bites in the freezer for 3 months.
How long do protein balls last?
Protein balls should last for up to a week in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. We love easy protein packed snacks. Here are some of our favorites:
How do you store homemade protein balls?
Shape into 1-1/2-in. balls and transfer them to an airtight container. Store your homemade protein balls in the refrigerator. Sneak some from the container whenever the craving strikes! With just a few easy swaps, you can make protein balls with different flavors. Here are some of our favorites. TMB Studio Combine all of the ingredients.
Are protein balls good for You?
Yes, protein balls are good for you – as long as they’re made with good ingredients (many of the store bought ones aren’t)! These energy bites bites are actually high in protein, and have healthy fats and carbs too! There are so many things to love about these bites (aside from them being delicious!). Here are some of the reasons why we love them.