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Wholesome Peanut Butter Protein Balls: Easy No-Bake Recipe

Wholesome Peanut Butter Protein Balls - featured image

These no-bake protein balls are a quick and easy snack made with simple, wholesome ingredients like peanut butter, oats, and maple syrup. Perfect for a pre-workout boost or a healthy dessert, they are kid-approved and adult-approved.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240g) creamy peanut butter
  • 1 ½ cups (135g) old-fashioned rolled oats
  • ⅓ cup (80ml) pure maple syrup
  • ¼ cup (30g) vanilla or unflavored protein powder (optional)
  • ⅓ cup (50g) mini chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons (15g) ground flaxseed meal
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the creamy peanut butter, pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir together with a rubber spatula until smooth and completely combined.
  2. Add the Dry Ingredients: Pour the rolled oats, protein powder (if using), and ground flaxseed meal into the bowl. Stir everything together until a thick, cohesive cookie dough forms. If too dry, add a teaspoon of water or more maple syrup; if too wet, add another tablespoon of oats.
  3. Fold in the Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  4. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to allow the oats to absorb moisture, making the dough easier to handle.
  5. Roll the Balls: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop portions of the chilled dough and roll between your palms to form smooth balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet. You should get about 18-20 balls.
  6. Final Chill: Refrigerate the rolled balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

For best texture, use natural peanut butter (just peanuts and salt) and old-fashioned rolled oats. Chill the dough before rolling to prevent stickiness. If the dough is too dry, add a teaspoon of liquid; if too wet, add more oats. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: peanut butter protein balls, no-bake protein balls, healthy snack, energy balls, gluten-free protein balls, vegan protein balls