Snack smarter with these dense, chewy, and easy-to-make Protein Balls.
Protein is hot these days. Packaged products like granola bars and yogurt are touting their protein gram count. Even carb-heavy items are getting in on the game. Just the other day, I was in the bread aisle to pick up my teenage son’s favorite bagels when I noticed there was a new high-protein version of those bagels. Sold! My teen, who is constantly trying to bulk up, loves them. While packaged food is one thing, what about getting more protein in the snacks you make in your own kitchen?
Protein balls are a great way to rack up protein grams. They’re a quick bite when you need a little something or an easy breakfast. Protein balls are a no-bake recipe and a great idea for making on a Sunday night, ahead of the work or school week. Since they’re no-bake, they even taste a little bit like cookie dough! But you’re getting the benefits of protein powder, peanut butter, and walnuts—all protein-rich ingredients.
You will love the taste and texture of this healthy snack. Protein balls deliver that irresistible combo of chocolate and peanut butter. The old-fashioned oats give them a slightly chewy texture. They are an easy snack to make and an easy snack to pop in your mouth. The challenge might be not eating the whole batch at once!
Shop smart: buying protein powder
There are a zillion different brands of protein powder, so it’s good to know a little bit about your options before heading to the store. The basic thing to know is that protein powder can be sourced from animals or plants. Whey, casein, and collagen protein powders all get their protein from dairy (whey and casein) or connective tissue of cows (collagen). Plant-based protein powders include options like pea, soy, hemp, and rice protein powders. These plant-based options tend to be lower in fat and higher in fiber than the animal-based ones. Always read the labels before buying in order to make the choice that best suits your dietary needs.
How do I store leftovers?
Store protein balls in the fridge so that they hold their shape. Packed into an airtight container, protein balls will keep for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Flash-freeze on a baking sheet for 30 minutes and then place them into a resealable freezer bag to store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before eating.
Serving suggestions
If you’re enjoying protein balls as breakfast, pair them with fresh fruit or a refreshing Mixed Berry Smoothie. For later in the day, even though they are standalone snacks, you can certainly enjoy them with other healthy options like sliced apples or a wedge of cheese. When my son has friends over, I like to make a snack board of healthy, high-protein options. So I include protein balls, string cheese sticks, and fresh veggies, plus fun snacks like Cheese Popcorn and Roasted Pumpkin Seeds. Have fun making your own snack board, pairing protein balls with any number of healthy, satisfying snacks.
Protein Balls
Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder
- 3/4 cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 pinch kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- In a food processor, grind half of the oats until they are a finer consistency. Mix all of the rolled oats and protein powder in a bowl.
- Stir in peanut butter, maple syrup, salt, and cinnamon until the mixture is evenly blended.
- Mix in the walnuts and mini chocolate chips until just combined.
- Use lightly wet hands or a small scoop to shape the mixture into 12 balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture is too dry, add 1 teaspoon of water at a time until the balls form easily.
- Place the balls in an airtight container and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up before serving.
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