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Easy No-Bake Peanut Butter Protein Balls: Best 5-Minute Snack

easy no-bake peanut butter protein balls - featured image

These easy no-bake peanut butter protein balls are the perfect 5-minute snack for busy days. Made with simple pantry ingredients, they’re healthy, delicious, and require no oven or stovetop.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular)
  • 1/2 cup honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
  • 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick oats)
  • 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
  • 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (optional but recommended)
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (dark or semi-sweet)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (skip if peanut butter is salted)

Instructions

  1. Combine the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup creamy peanut butter and 1/2 cup honey. Stir them together until smooth and well combined. If peanut butter is cold, microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften.
  2. Add the dry ingredients: Add 1 1/2 cups rolled oats, 1/2 cup protein powder, and 1/4 cup ground flaxseed to the bowl. Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon salt if using. Stir until no dry patches remain. If too dry, add a tablespoon of honey or a splash of milk. If too wet, add a tablespoon of oats.
  3. Fold in the chocolate chips: Add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips and fold them in gently until evenly distributed.
  4. Chill the dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
  5. Roll into balls: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll between your palms into smooth balls, about 1-inch diameter. You should get about 20-24 balls.
  6. Chill again: Place the rolled balls on the lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  7. Store properly: Transfer chilled protein balls to an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for up to three months.

Notes

Chilling the dough is crucial for easy rolling. Use room temperature ingredients for best mixing. For extra flavor, toast the oats at 350°F for 8-10 minutes before using. Wet your hands slightly if dough sticks while rolling. These protein balls taste even better after a day in the fridge as flavors meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake protein balls, peanut butter protein balls, healthy snack, 5-minute snack, easy protein balls, no-bake snack, high protein snack