No-Bake Protein Balls: A Nutrient-Packed Snack
This no-bake protein balls recipe is one of my favorite healthy snacks! It’s easy to make with simple ingredients like peanut butter, oats, and flax.
When I need an afternoon energy boost, these protein balls are the perfect bite-sized snack! Made with peanut butter, honey, and mini chocolate chips, they’re lightly sweet, nutty, and delicious. They’re super satisfying too—oats and ground flaxseed add plenty of fiber, and a couple of scoops of protein powder give them a nice protein bump.
They’re similar to the energy balls I’ve shared in the past, but with one key difference: you don’t need a food processor to make them. You can just stir together the ingredients in a bowl before shaping the mixture into balls. So easy!
If you’re looking for healthy snack ideas, definitely try these no-bake protein balls. They’re super simple and SO much better than any store-bought bar. I think you’ll love them!
Ingredients for Protein Energy Bites
You need 7 basic ingredients to make this protein balls recipe:
| Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|
| Whole rolled oats | Provides chewy texture. Use gluten-free oats if necessary. |
| Creamy peanut butter | Rich flavor and helps bind ingredients together. |
| Ground flaxseed | Adds fiber and healthy fats. |
| Honey | Natural sweetener and binding agent. |
| Protein powder | Vanilla or unflavored recommended. Whole Foods’ Unflavored Pea Protein Powder works well. |
| Vanilla extract | Enhances flavor, making it taste like cookie dough. |
| Mini chocolate chips | Adds a delightful chocolatey touch. |
Find the complete recipe with measurements below.
Recipe Variations
- Use a different nut butter: Substitute almond butter or cashew butter for the peanut butter, or use sunflower seed butter to make this recipe nut-free.
- Skip the chocolate chips: Leave them out or replace with chopped dried fruit.
- Make them vegan: Replace honey with maple syrup.
How to Make Protein Balls
These no-bake protein balls are super simple to make!
Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together the oats, peanut butter, flaxseed, honey, protein powder, vanilla, and chocolate chips.
- Note: The mixture will be thick. If it’s too thick, add water, 1 teaspoon at a time.
Form the mixture into balls: Use a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion out the dough, then roll into balls using your hands.
Chill: Place the balls in a single layer on a plate or baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours until firm.
Once firm, your peanut butter energy balls are ready to enjoy!
How to Store Protein Balls
Store homemade protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They freeze well for up to 3 months. I love keeping a stash in the freezer for quick, healthy snacks!
More Healthy Snacks to Try
If you love this peanut butter protein balls recipe, try one of these easy healthy snacks next: