Can I make these without protein powder?

Yes. Replace protein powder with extra oats or almond flour. The texture will be softer and protein content lower, but still delicious.

Are these good for kids?

Absolutely. They are naturally sweetened, easy to chew, and great for lunchboxes.

Why are my protein balls crumbly?

This usually means not enough liquid or fat. Add milk or peanut butter 1 teaspoon at a time.

Yes. Freezing improves texture and makes them last longer. They thaw quickly.

What protein powder works best?

Whey isolate or blended plant proteins give the smoothest texture. Avoid powders with lots of gums.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls (No Bake)

Description

Rich, fudgy Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls made in one bowl with oats, cocoa, and protein powder. No bake, naturally sweetened, and perfect for meal prep snacks.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (256 g) natural creamy peanut butter

1/3 cup (80 ml) honey or maple syrup

1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract

1 cup (90 g) rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick)

1/2 cup (50 g) chocolate or vanilla protein powder

3 tablespoons (15 g) unsweetened cocoa powder

1/8 teaspoon fine salt

2 to 3 tablespoons (30 to 45 ml) milk, as needed (dairy or non-dairy)

Optional add-ins:

1 to 2 tablespoons (10 to 20 g) mini chocolate chips

1 tablespoon (8 g) chia seeds

1 to 2 tablespoons (10 to 20 g) chopped peanuts

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Instructions

1. Line a plate or small tray with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, stir peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth and glossy.

3. Add oats, protein powder, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until thick and evenly combined.

4. If the dough seems dry or crumbly, add milk 1 tablespoon at a time until it becomes soft and rollable.

5. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll into balls. Repeat with remaining dough to make 14 to 16 balls.

6. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes, or freeze for 10 minutes, until firm. Serve cold or slightly softened.

Notes

Sweetness: Taste the dough before rolling. If you want it sweeter, add 1 to 2 teaspoons more honey or maple syrup.

Texture fixes: Too dry means add 1 teaspoon milk at a time. Too sticky means chill 10 minutes or mix in 1 to 2 tablespoons more oats.

Protein powder: Different brands absorb differently. Start with less milk and adjust slowly.

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 7 days. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw 5 minutes before eating.

Nut-free option: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter (may turn slightly green from a natural reaction with baking soda free ingredients, still safe to eat).

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Healthy Snacks
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 ball
Calories: 110
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 85 mg
Fat: 6 g
Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 9 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 6 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg