Protein Balls Without Protein Powder

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

These delicious protein balls are a nutritious and satisfying snack, perfect for any time of the day.

Stella Cameron

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2025-12-24T16:09:35.725Z

These protein balls are a fantastic way to get a boost of energy without the need for protein powder. Packed with wholesome ingredients, they are perfect for a quick snack or a post-workout treat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Nutritious and satisfying without the need for protein powder
  • Customizable with your favorite nuts and seeds
  • Easy to make and perfect for meal prep

Healthy Snack Alternative

Finding a nutritious snack that satisfies your cravings can be challenging. These protein balls are the perfect solution, providing a balanced mix of healthy fats, fiber, and natural sweetness. Unlike many store-bought snacks that are loaded with preservatives and artificial ingredients, these homemade protein balls are made with wholesome ingredients you can trust. They offer a great way to fuel your body without compromising on taste or health.

With rolled oats as a base, these protein balls are rich in dietary fiber, which can help keep you feeling full longer. The addition of almond butter contributes healthy monounsaturated fats, while honey or maple syrup provides a natural sweetness without the need for refined sugars. This combination makes them an ideal snack for anyone looking to maintain energy levels throughout the day.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of these protein balls is their versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you prefer different types of nut butters, seeds, or sweeteners, feel free to experiment! For a tropical twist, consider adding dried pineapple or mango. If you're a chocolate lover, swap in dark chocolate chips for an extra indulgence.

This adaptability also makes these protein balls perfect for various dietary needs. If you're vegan, substitute honey with maple syrup; for nut allergies, choose sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a snack that is truly your own.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're looking to streamline your weekly meal prep, these protein balls are an excellent choice. They can be made in advance and stored for a quick grab-and-go snack throughout the week. Preparing a batch on the weekend means you'll have a healthy option ready whenever hunger strikes, whether at home, work, or after a workout.

To make meal prep even easier, consider doubling the recipe. These protein balls freeze well, so you can store some for later use. Just pop them in the fridge the night before you plan to eat them, and they'll be ready to enjoy the next day. This ensures you always have nutritious snacks on hand, making healthy eating effortless.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious protein balls:

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup almond butter
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 1/4 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips or dried fruit
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Mix the ingredients well to ensure they're evenly combined.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your protein balls:

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), chia seeds, shredded coconut, chocolate chips (or dried fruit), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.

Form Balls

Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

Chill and Store

Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set. Once firm, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the fridge.

Enjoy your protein balls as a quick snack or a healthy treat!

Storage Tips

To maximize the shelf life of your protein balls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to a week this way, but if you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply place the protein balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to three months of storage.

When you're ready to eat, just take out what you need and let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes. This method ensures that your protein balls maintain their texture and flavor, making them a convenient snack option whenever you need a boost.

Serving Suggestions

These protein balls are not just a snack; they can be part of a balanced meal or a post-workout treat. Pair them with a piece of fruit for a quick breakfast on the go, or enjoy them alongside a smoothie for a nutritious afternoon pick-me-up. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for sharing at gatherings or serving as a healthy dessert option at parties.

If you're looking to elevate your snack game even further, consider serving the protein balls with a side of yogurt or cottage cheese. This adds an extra protein boost and pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the balls. You can also sprinkle some nuts or seeds on top for added crunch and nutrition.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Yes! You can substitute almond butter with peanut butter, cashew butter, or any nut butter of your choice.

→ How long do these protein balls last?

When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, these protein balls can last for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these protein balls?

Absolutely! You can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ Are these protein balls gluten-free?

Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats, these protein balls can be gluten-free.

Protein Balls Without Protein Powder

These delicious protein balls are a nutritious and satisfying snack, perfect for any time of the day.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time10 minutes

Created by: Stella Cameron

Recipe Type: Healthy & Light

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 12 balls

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 cup rolled oats
  2. 1/2 cup almond butter
  3. 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
  4. 1/4 cup chia seeds
  5. 1/4 cup shredded coconut
  6. 1/4 cup chocolate chips or dried fruit
  7. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  8. Pinch of salt

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), chia seeds, shredded coconut, chocolate chips (or dried fruit), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.

Step 02

Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 03

Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set. Once firm, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the fridge.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 4g