If you’re craving a simple, satisfying snack that’s packed with protein and flavor, these Peanut Butter Protein Balls are your new best friend. With just five ingredients and zero baking required, they come together in minutes for the ultimate grab-and-go energy bite.
These protein-packed little gems are made with creamy peanut butter, your favorite vanilla protein powder, and quick oats for the perfect chewy texture. They’re ideal for meal prep, post-workout fuel, or that 3 p.m. pick-me-up when you need something filling and delicious.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to make these easy no-bake protein balls:
- 1 cup all-natural peanut butter – Creamy or crunchy both work. Make sure it’s well-stirred so the mixture holds together.
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder – I used Leanfit, but any protein powder you enjoy will do. Chocolate or peanut butter flavors are also delicious!
- 1 ½ cups quick oats – Quick oats bind better and give a softer texture. Rolled oats make chunkier bites.
- ¼ cup honey – For stickiness and sweetness. To keep it vegan, sub maple syrup (it may be a bit softer).
- 3–4 tbsp almond milk – Start with 3 tbsp and add more as needed until the texture holds when rolled.
Substitution Notes
- Vegan option: Use maple syrup instead of honey and plant-based protein powder (pea, soy, or brown rice).
- Nut-free option: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or tahini.
- Add-ins: Mini chocolate chips, chia seeds, or shredded coconut add extra texture and flavor.
Helpful Tools
- Mixing bowl: A large one so you can really stir everything together without spillage.
- Measuring cups & spoons: For accuracy (especially for the oats and liquid).
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon: Keeps the protein balls uniform in size.
- Airtight container: Perfect for fridge or freezer storage.
How to Make This Peanut Butter Protein Balls Recipe
Follow these simple steps:
1. Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, protein powder, oats, and honey (or maple syrup). Mix until everything starts to come together.
2. Adjust the Texture
Add almond milk, one tablespoon at a time. Stir well after each addition. Stop when the mixture is thick but holds together when pressed between your fingers.
3. Form the Balls
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll between your palms to form a ball.
- You’ll get 12 regular balls or 24 mini protein bites, depending on size preference.
4. Chill
Place the protein balls on a parchment-lined tray and chill in the fridge for 20–30 minutes to set. Or, if you can’t wait—just eat one right away!
Tips & Tricks
- Use cold peanut butter if your mixture feels too soft.
- If too dry: Add a drizzle more milk.
- If too wet: Stir in a bit more oats or protein powder.
- Freeze for later: Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Customize it: Add cinnamon, vanilla extract, or mini chocolate chips for variety.
Benefits of Peanut Butter Protein Balls
- High-Protein: Each ball packs a punch of muscle-building protein.
- Quick Energy: Oats and honey provide slow-release carbs to keep you energized.
- Healthy Fats: Peanut butter adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch once and snack all week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! You can use crushed rice cakes, almond flour, or coconut flour as an alternative. Start with less and adjust until the texture holds together.
Absolutely! Chocolate protein powder gives these balls a rich, dessert-like flavor. Pair it with a dash of cocoa powder or mini chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
They’ll stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 7 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer. Let frozen balls thaw for 10 minutes before eating.
Use maple syrup instead of honey and choose a vegan protein powder such as pea or soy. Plant-based milk like oat or almond works perfectly, too.
Yes! Press the mixture firmly into a parchment-lined pan and chill. Cut into squares once firm for easy grab-and-go protein bars.
Peanut Butter Protein Balls (with Protein Powder)
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-natural peanut butter
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder I used leanfit – make sure you like the taste of your protein power for this recipe.
- 1 ½ cups quick oats see notes
- ¼ cup honey or sub maple syrup but it may not stick together quite as well
- 3-4 tbsp milk I used almond
Instructions
Mix the Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, protein powder, oats, and honey.
Adjust the Texture
- Add almond milk, one tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition until the mixture holds together when pressed.
Form the Balls
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form a bite-sized ball. Repeat until all mixture is used. Make 24 balls for little minis or 12 for regular sized.
Chill
- Place protein balls in the fridge for 20–30 minutes to firm up, or enjoy right away!
Notes
Notes
- Oats: Quick oats are best for mini protein balls because they bind better and give a softer texture. If you’d like to use rolled oats, I recommend making around 12 larger balls instead of minis.
- Protein Powder: Choose a flavor you love, since it’s noticeable in the recipe. Vanilla, chocolate, or peanut butter protein powders all work well.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup keeps this vegan; honey makes it stickier and easier to roll.
- Make-Ahead: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and should not be considered professional nutritional advice.
Nutrition
Conclusion
These Peanut Butter Protein Balls are proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple pantry staples and less than 10 minutes of prep, you’ve got a batch of tasty, protein-packed bites that’ll keep you fueled all week long.
Whether you’re heading to the gym, packing a school snack, or just need something sweet after dinner, these are a go-to favorite every time.
