Protein-packed snacks are all the rage, and for good reason. Not only do they provide a boost of energy to help power through your day, but they’re also incredibly versatile and can be tailored to suit any taste or dietary requirement. One of our favorite ways to get our protein fix is with delicious protein balls – bite-sized treats that are easy to make, fun to customize, and packed with nutrients.
From classic flavors like peanut butter and chocolate chip to more adventurous options like matcha green tea and coconut cashew, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering recipes to help you get started. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a busy professional, or just looking for a healthy snack option, these protein balls are sure to hit the spot.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Protein Balls
These bite-sized treats combine the richness of peanut butter and chocolate with the convenience of a protein-packed snack. Perfect for fitness enthusiasts or anyone looking for a tasty way to boost their protein intake.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, honey, and applesauce. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the protein powder and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the chocolate chips.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
5. Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! These protein balls are best served chilled, so simply refrigerate and enjoy when you need a quick snack.
Almond Joy Protein Balls
Get a boost of energy with these no-bake Almond Joy Protein Balls, packed with protein and flavor from crunchy almonds and creamy coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, almond butter, and honey. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the unsweetened shredded coconut, chopped almonds, and vanilla protein powder. Mix until well combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 balls.
4. Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake)
These Almond Joy Protein Balls are perfect for a quick snack or post-workout treat. Enjoy!
Oatmeal Raisin Protein Balls
Boost your energy levels with these tasty and nutritious protein balls made with rolled oats, sweet raisins, and a hint of vanilla. Perfect as a quick snack or post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped raisins
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Pinch of cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Add chopped raisins, protein powder, salt, and cinnamon. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Use your hands to shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 balls.
4. Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Double Chocolate Protein Balls
Take your protein game to the next level with these indulgent Double Chocolate Protein Balls. Made with wholesome ingredients and a boost of protein, these bite-sized treats are perfect for post-workout snacking or as a healthy dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Chopped nuts or shredded coconut for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine protein powder, oats, and almond butter. Mix until well combined.
2. Add cocoa powder, honey, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Fold in dark chocolate chips.
4. Use your hands to shape the dough into 12-15 balls.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts or shredded coconut, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! These protein balls are ready to eat straight out of the fridge.
Coconut Cashew Protein Balls
Boost your energy levels with these bite-sized protein balls, packed with the goodness of coconut and cashews. Perfect as a pre-workout snack or post-workout treat, these treats are easy to make and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup dried coconut flakes
– 1/4 cup cashew butter
– 1/4 cup protein powder of your choice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine oats, coconut flakes, and protein powder.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cashew butter, honey, and salt until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: None, as these treats are no-bake!
Enjoy your Coconut Cashew Protein Balls within 3-5 days of making. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 2 months.
Matcha Green Tea Protein Balls
Revitalize your day with these refreshing Matcha Green Tea Protein Balls. Perfect as a pre-workout snack or post-workout reward, they combine the energizing properties of matcha green tea with the nutritional benefits of protein and whole grains.
Ingredients:
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– 2 tablespoons rolled oats
– 2 tablespoons almond butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon matcha green tea powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine protein powder, oats, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together almond butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the matcha green tea powder to the almond butter mixture and stir well.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll the dough into small balls (about 1-inch in diameter).
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These protein balls are ready straight from your fridge.
Banana Bread Protein Balls
These bite-sized treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while boosting your protein intake. Made with ripe bananas, rolled oats, and protein powder, these Banana Bread Protein Balls are a tasty and healthy snack option.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (approx. 20g)
– 1 tablespoon almond butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the bananas, oats, and protein powder. Blend until smooth.
2. Add in the almond butter, honey, and salt. Blend until well combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These bites are best served fresh and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Pumpkin Spice Protein Balls
Get ready to fall in love with these bite-sized treats that combine the warmth of pumpkin spice with the power of protein. These no-bake energy balls are perfect for snacking on-the-go or as a post-workout reward.
Ingredients:
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine protein powder, oats, and salt. Mix well.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together peanut butter, pumpkin puree, and honey until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
4. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake bites are ready to enjoy immediately.
Blueberry Muffin Protein Balls
These bite-sized energy balls are a delicious and nutritious way to start your day, packed with protein and the sweetness of blueberries. Perfect for a quick snack or post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1/4 cup dried blueberries
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the Greek yogurt, protein powder, and chia seeds. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Fold in the dried blueberries.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or freeze for up to 2 hours.
7. Enjoy as a quick snack or post-workout treat.
Cooking Time: None needed! These energy balls are ready to go straight from the fridge or freezer.
Cookie Dough Protein Balls
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth while staying on track with these bite-sized Cookie Dough Protein Balls!
Ingredients:
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips (dairy-free, if desired)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine protein powder, oats, and salt. Mix until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together almond butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
4. Fold in chocolate chips and walnuts (if using).
5. Use your hands to shape the dough into 1-inch balls, about 12-15 total.
6. Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: None! These protein balls are ready to devour straight from the fridge.
Lemon Poppy Seed Protein Balls
Boost your energy levels with these tangy and nutritious protein balls, infused with the brightness of lemon and the crunch of poppy seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the protein powder, oats, almond butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Fold in the chopped poppy seeds.
4. Use your hands to shape the dough into 6-8 balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These protein balls are no-bake and ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Lemon Poppy Seed Protein Balls!
Carrot Cake Protein Balls
These bite-sized energy balls are packed with protein-rich ingredients and the warm flavors of carrot cake, making them a perfect snack for fitness enthusiasts or anyone looking for a healthier indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon almond butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine protein powder, oats, carrots, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, mix together almond butter, honey, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into 12-15 bite-sized balls.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These protein balls are ready to eat as soon as they’re formed.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Carrot Cake Protein Balls!
Espresso Chocolate Protein Balls
These bite-sized treats combine the richness of chocolate with the energizing boost of espresso and protein, making them perfect for a pre-workout snack or post-workout reward.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
– Pinch of salt
– Chocolate chips or shaved chocolate (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine oats, cocoa powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter, Greek yogurt, and protein powder until smooth.
3. Add the espresso powder to the peanut butter mixture and stir well.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
5. Roll into 12-15 balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
7. Optional: Melt chocolate chips or shave some chocolate to drizzle over the protein balls.
Cooking Time: None required! These treats are best served chilled and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Apple Cinnamon Protein Balls
Start your day with a boost of protein and flavor from these delicious apple cinnamon bites.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup almond butter
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped dried apples
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (about 30g)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, almond butter, and Greek yogurt. Mix until smooth.
2. Add honey, chopped apples, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the vanilla protein powder and salt.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into 12-15 small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Enjoy as a snack or post-workout treat.
Cooking Time: None required! These protein balls are ready to eat straight from the fridge.
Cherry Almond Protein Balls
These bite-sized treats are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, packed with protein-rich ingredients to keep you going throughout the day. With a combination of cherries, almonds, and whey protein powder, these energy-boosting balls are a delicious and healthy snack option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup dried cherries
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 scoop vanilla-flavored whey protein powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the oats, cherries, and almonds.
2. Add the protein powder and mix until well combined.
3. Add the honey and coconut oil, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
5. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: None – these energy-boosting bites are ready to eat straight from the fridge!
Vanilla Chai Protein Balls
These bite-sized energy balls combine the warm spices of chai with the comforting flavor of vanilla, all wrapped up in a protein-packed package.
Ingredients:
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– 2 tablespoons rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon almond butter
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/8 teaspoon black tea leaves (dried)
– Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine protein powder, oats, almond butter, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and sea salt.
2. Mix until well combined, with a consistency similar to wet sand.
3. Roll mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place rolled balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply store your Vanilla Chai Protein Balls in an airtight container and enjoy within 3-5 days.
Sunflower Seed Butter Protein Balls
Boost your protein intake with these no-bake bites packed with sunflower seed butter, rolled oats, and protein powder.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons sunflower seed butter
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (about 30 grams)
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine sunflower seed butter and protein powder. Mix until smooth.
2. Add rolled oats and mix until well combined.
3. Add honey and salt; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). You should end up with around 12-15 bites.
Cooking Time: None! These protein balls are no-bake, making them perfect for a quick snack or post-workout treat.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Sunflower Seed Butter Protein Balls!
Gingerbread Protein Balls
These bite-sized energy balls combine the warm spices of gingerbread with the benefits of protein-rich ingredients, making them a perfect snack for fitness enthusiasts and cookie lovers alike.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup protein powder of your choice (e.g., whey or plant-based)
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chocolate chips or chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, protein powder, and chopped crystallized ginger.
2. In a separate bowl, mix almond butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with chocolate chips or chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: None required!
Strawberry Shortcake Protein Balls
Get your protein fix and satisfy your sweet tooth with these bite-sized Strawberry Shortcake Protein Balls!
Ingredients:
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the protein powder, oats, and salt. Mix until well combined.
2. Add in the almond butter and honey, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Fold in the crushed strawberries.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 protein balls.
5. Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These protein balls are ready to go straight from the fridge.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Strawberry Shortcake Protein Balls!
Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Protein Balls
A sweet and salty treat that’s packed with protein to keep you going all day long. These bite-sized balls are perfect for a quick snack or post-workout reward.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 scoop whey protein powder (approx. 20-25 grams)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until smooth.
2. Add dark chocolate chips and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and sea salt.
4. Roll in a ball shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None, as these are no-bake bites!
Summary
Get ready to power up your snack game with these 20 delicious protein ball recipes! From classic flavors like peanut butter and banana bread to decadent treats like double chocolate and cookie dough, there’s something for everyone. These no-bake bites are packed with protein-rich ingredients like peanut butter, almond flour, and Greek yogurt, making them the perfect post-workout treat or healthy indulgence. With a variety of flavors to choose from, you’ll never get bored. Try one (or all) today and fuel your body with these nutritious and delicious protein balls!