Protein Balls Without Protein Powder

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

These delicious protein balls are made without any protein powder, using wholesome ingredients to pack a nutritious punch. Perfect for a quick snack or a post-workout treat!

Stella Cameron

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2025-12-24T14:45:38.626Z

These protein balls are a game-changer for anyone looking to boost their protein intake without relying on protein powders. Made with oats, nut butter, and a touch of honey, they're not only nutritious but also incredibly tasty!

Why You'll Love These Protein Balls

  • Nutritious and filling without any artificial supplements
  • Versatile recipe that allows for endless flavor combinations
  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for on-the-go snacking

Nutritional Benefits

These protein balls are packed with wholesome ingredients, making them a nutritious option for anyone looking to enhance their diet without the use of artificial supplements. Rolled oats provide a good source of fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Almond butter or peanut butter adds healthy fats and protein, making these bites not just delicious but also beneficial for your overall health.

In addition to their fiber and protein content, the inclusion of nuts offers essential vitamins and minerals. Nuts are known for their heart-healthy properties, helping to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Furthermore, honey or maple syrup serves as a natural sweetener, providing energy without the refined sugars found in many snacks.

Versatility in Flavor

One of the best aspects of these protein balls is their versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For instance, if you love the flavor of coconut, consider adding unsweetened shredded coconut to the mixture. Alternatively, you can incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a natural sweetness and chewy texture.

Feel free to experiment with different nut butters, such as cashew or sunflower seed butter, to create unique flavor profiles. You can also swap out the chocolate chips for seeds or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the taste further. The options are endless, allowing you to enjoy a new variation every time you make them!

Perfect for On-the-Go

These protein balls are ideal for those busy days when you need a quick energy boost. They are easy to grab and go, making them a perfect snack for work, school, or post-workout recovery. Instead of reaching for processed snacks that may be high in sugar and low in nutrients, you can have these homemade bites ready to fuel your day.

Storing these protein balls is simple too! Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for longer shelf life. This means you can prepare a batch in advance and always have a healthy option at hand when hunger strikes.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, etc.)
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

Mix and match ingredients to suit your taste!

Instructions

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey, chopped nuts, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Form Balls

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

Chill and Serve

Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set. Enjoy!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness and flavor of your protein balls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will typically last up to a week, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the week without losing quality. If you prefer to make them in larger batches, consider freezing the protein balls for up to three months. Just make sure to separate each ball with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

When you're ready to eat a frozen protein ball, simply take it out and let it thaw at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up. This way, you can always have a healthy, homemade snack on hand, no matter how busy life gets.

Ideal Serving Suggestions

These protein balls are versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of the day. They work wonderfully as a pre-workout snack, providing you with the energy you need to power through your workout session. Additionally, they can be a great post-workout treat to help with recovery due to their protein content.

You can also pair these protein balls with a piece of fruit, such as a banana or apple, for an even more nutritious snack. This combination not only satisfies your hunger but also offers a balance of carbohydrates and protein, making it a well-rounded choice for energy and recovery.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the nut butter?

Yes, you can use sun butter or any other nut/seed butter you prefer.

→ How long can I store these protein balls?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze these protein balls?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding spices like cinnamon or cocoa powder, or mix in some dried fruit or seeds.

Protein Balls Without Protein Powder

These delicious protein balls are made without any protein powder, using wholesome ingredients to pack a nutritious punch. Perfect for a quick snack or a post-workout treat!

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time15 minutes

Created by: Stella Cameron

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 12 balls

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 1 cup rolled oats
  2. 1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter
  3. 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  4. 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, etc.)
  5. 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
  6. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  7. A pinch of salt

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey, chopped nuts, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 02

With 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. Enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 4g