Protein Balls

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5 from 848 votes
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Get your protein fix the delicious way in these instant protein balls! Easily customizable and with tons of flavor options, I love how they need just 4 base ingredients.

Keen for more high protein snacks? Check out homemade protein bars, cookie dough protein bars, and protein chips.

protein balls.

I’m the person who ALWAYS needs a snack between meals to keep hunger at bay. To ensure I remain satisfied and energized, I need some protein, and this is where protein balls come into play!

What are protein balls?

Protein balls are energy bites or bliss balls that have added protein in them, thanks to protein powder. They are typically made with peanut butter and oatmeal and can be flavored in a variety of ways.

Table of Contents
  1. Why I love this recipe
  2. Ingredients needed
  3. How to make protein balls
  4. Arman’s recipe tips
  5. Storage instructions
  6. Frequently Asked Questions
  7. More no bake high protein recipes to try
  8. 4-Ingredient Protein Balls (Recipe Card)

Why I love this recipe

  • 4 Ingredients only. Unlike other energy ball recipes, this one only needs four ingredients. Bonus? No butter, no eggs, no oil!
  • Ready in 5 minutes. From prep to plate, this entire recipe takes just five minutes.
  • It’s easily customizable. Add mini chocolate chips and candy, dip them in chocolate, and fold in some nuts; the possibilities for adding to the mixture are endless.
  • Vegan and gluten-free! Yep, these tick both these dietary boxes!
  • Perfect texture. They are chewy yet doughy, similar to raw cookie dough. Taste-wise, they’re like unbaked oatmeal cookies with a protein twist!

★★★★★ REVIEW 

“I made a big batch of these and brought them to work where I store them in a freezer and have one whenever I need a snack boost. So yummy!” – Linda

Ingredients needed

  • Rolled oats. Gives the energy balls a chewy texture. This is a fabulous slow-releasing energy carb. 
  • Protein powder. The key ingredient giving this recipe the added boost! I prefer using casein or brown rice protein powder (or other plant-based protein powders), but some whey protein powder can work. 
  • Peanut butter. Hold the balls together and provide a rich flavor. See below for easy substitutions and nut-free options!
  • Maple syrup. Adds sweetness and helps hold the balls together. 
  • Mix-ins. I’ve included tons below, but a few more: chia seeds, coconut, ground flax seed, and more.

How to make protein balls

I’ve included step-by-step photos below to make this recipe easy to follow at home. For the full printable recipe instructions and ingredient quantities, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Step 1- Combine ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, mix the dry ingredients together. Add the wet ingredients and stir until combined. Fold through your flavor mix-ins of choice.

Step 2- Roll them into balls. Next, using your hands (or a mini cookie scoop), roll out balls, place them on a parchment paper lined plate, and refrigerate them for five minutes, to firm up. 

homemade protein balls.

Arman’s recipe tips

Flavor variations

For the flavor variations, make the basic base recipe first. Then, fold through the extra ingredients to change up the flavors.

Monster cookie protein balls

  • Protein ball base
  • 1/2 cup mini M&M’s or vegan candy buttons

White chocolate cranberry balls

  • Protein ball base
  • 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened dried cranberries

Chocolate peanut butter balls

  • Protein ball base
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips

Oatmeal raisin balls

  • Protein ball base
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup raisins

Chocolate chip balls

  • Protein ball base
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Storage instructions

To store: Place no bake balls in an airtight container and keep them the fridge. They will keep fresh for up to 4 weeks.

To freeze: If you make a big batch of these balls, they can be placed in a ziplock bag and stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. 

no bake protein balls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are protein balls good for you?

Protein or energy balls are a great snack to enjoy between meals, as they contain ample amounts of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. One or two balls will keep you satisfied and energised between your main meals.

Are protein balls good after a workout?

These balls contain a good amount of protein and carbohydrates, making them a fantastic option after a workout. Studies show that eating something with a balance of carbs and protein 30 minutes after a workout improves recovery time and also aids muscle growth (source).

How many calories are in an energy ball?

These protein energy balls have less than 100 calories each. Enjoy two or three for a well-balanced and satisfying snack.

More no bake high protein recipes to try

protein balls recipe.

4-Ingredient Protein Balls

5 from 848 votes
An easy 5-minute recipe for homemade protein energy balls made with 4 ingredients! Chewy, easy and made in one bowl. Watch the video below to see how I make it in my kitchen!
Servings: 24 Balls
Prep: 1 minute
Cook: 4 minutes
Total: 5 minutes

Video

Ingredients  

Instructions 

  • In a large mixing bowl, mix your oats with protein powder until combined. Add your peanut butter and syrup and mix well. Fold through your mix ins of choice.
  • Lightly wet your hands (or spray them with cooking spray). Form 20-24 small balls of dough. Place on a plate and refrigerate until firm.

Notes

* Any nut or seed butter can be used.
TO STORE: Place no bake balls in a sealable container and keep in the fridge. They will keep fresh for up to 4 weeks.
TO FREEZE: If you make a big batch of these balls, they can be placed in a ziplock bag and stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1Protein ballCalories: 98kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 6gFat: 5gSodium: 57mgPotassium: 131mgFiber: 2gCalcium: 32mgIron: 1mgNET CARBS: 10g
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Author: Arman Liew
Tried this recipe?Give us a shout at @thebigmansworld or tag #thebigmansworld!

Originally published July 2022, updated and republished May 2024

Arman Liew

I’m a two time cookbook author, photographer, and writer, and passionate about creating easy and healthier recipes. I believe you don’t need to be experienced in the kitchen to make good food using simple ingredients that most importantly, taste delicious.

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  1. 5 stars
    We make these on a fortnightly basis for the kids to snack on and grab quickly between sports/school/work etc. They love them no matter what the combination!

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