Protein Balls with Cinnamon
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Enjoy these delicious and nutritious protein balls flavored with cinnamon, perfect for a quick snack or post-workout boost.
These protein balls are a fantastic way to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping your nutrition in check. Made with wholesome ingredients, they're perfect for busy lifestyles.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with minimal ingredients
- A healthy snack option for any time of the day
- Cinnamon adds a warm, comforting flavor
Nutritional Benefits of Protein Balls
Protein balls are an excellent way to boost your energy and protein intake, making them ideal for athletes and anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Packed with rolled oats, these snacks provide complex carbohydrates, ensuring sustained energy release. The nut butter adds healthy fats and protein, helping to keep you feeling full longer.
Incorporating protein powder not only enhances the protein content but also offers a variety of essential amino acids that are crucial for muscle repair and growth. With the inclusion of cinnamon, these protein balls also bring additional health benefits, such as stabilizing blood sugar levels and improving digestion, making them a smart choice for any time of day.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These protein balls are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on various occasions. Whether you need a quick breakfast on the go, a post-workout snack, or a healthy treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, these little bites have got you covered. They can easily fit into meal prep routines, allowing you to have a nutritious option readily available.
Moreover, the recipe is easily adaptable to suit your taste preferences. You can experiment with different nut butters, sweeteners, or even add-ins like dried fruits or seeds. This flexibility allows you to create personalized protein balls that cater to your dietary needs and flavor preferences.
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage of protein balls is essential to maintain their freshness and flavor. After chilling, store your protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week, making them a convenient snack option for busy days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just layer them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking.
When you're ready to enjoy a frozen protein ball, simply take it out and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes, or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds. This way, you can always have a healthy snack on hand, ready to give you a boost whenever you need it!
Ingredients
Protein Balls Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut or almond)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Mix all ingredients well until combined.
Instructions
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, nut butter, honey or maple syrup, protein powder, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
Add Chocolate Chips
If using, fold in the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Form the Balls
Using your hands, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill and Enjoy
Refrigerate the protein balls for about 30 minutes to firm up. Enjoy them cold or at room temperature!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips for Customization
One of the best aspects of this protein balls recipe is the ability to customize it to your liking. If you're a fan of coconut, consider adding unsweetened shredded coconut to the mixture for added flavor and texture. Alternatively, a scoop of chia seeds or flaxseeds can enhance the nutritional profile, providing additional fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, try incorporating chopped nuts or seeds into the mixture. This not only adds variety but also enhances the overall texture of the protein balls, making each bite a delightful experience.
Serving Suggestions
These protein balls can be served in numerous ways, making them a fantastic addition to any snack platter. Pair them with fresh fruit like apple slices or bananas for a balanced snack that satisfies both your sweet tooth and hunger. They also make for a great topping on yogurt, adding a protein boost and a bit of crunch.
For a more decadent treat, consider drizzling melted dark chocolate over the chilled protein balls or serving them with a dollop of nut butter on the side. This transforms a simple snack into a gourmet experience, perfect for entertaining guests or indulging yourself.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of nut butter?
Yes, you can use any nut butter you prefer, such as cashew or sunflower seed butter.
→ How long do these protein balls last?
They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
→ Can I freeze these protein balls?
Absolutely! They can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw them before enjoying.
→ What can I substitute for honey?
You can replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.
Protein Balls with Cinnamon
Enjoy these delicious and nutritious protein balls flavored with cinnamon, perfect for a quick snack or post-workout boost.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 balls
What You'll Need
Protein Balls Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut or almond)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, nut butter, honey or maple syrup, protein powder, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
If using, fold in the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Using your hands, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Refrigerate the protein balls for about 30 minutes to firm up. Enjoy them cold or at room temperature!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 5g