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To make these no bake chocolate peanut butter protein balls, gather these simple ingredients: - 1 cup natural peanut butter - 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup - 1 cup rolled oats - 1/2 cup chocolate protein powder - 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips - 1/4 cup ground flaxseed - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - A pinch of sea salt These protein balls are packed with nutrients. Each ball has a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. They provide energy and help keep you full. Here's a quick look at the nutritional value: - Calories: About 100 per ball - Protein: 5g - Fat: 5g - Carbohydrates: 12g - Fiber: 2g - Sugar: 4g You can easily swap ingredients based on your taste and needs. Here are some ideas: - Use almond butter instead of peanut butter for a different flavor. - Swap honey with agave syrup for a vegan option. - Use quick oats if you want a softer texture. - Replace chocolate protein powder with vanilla for a lighter taste. - Add chia seeds instead of flaxseed for extra crunch. These substitutions keep the recipe fun and help you customize it! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by gathering all your ingredients. You need: - 1 cup natural peanut butter - 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup - 1 cup rolled oats - 1/2 cup chocolate protein powder - 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips - 1/4 cup ground flaxseed - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - A pinch of sea salt In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup). Mix them until smooth. Next, add the chocolate protein powder, rolled oats, ground flaxseed, and sea salt. Stir this mixture well until all dry ingredients blend in. Then, stir in the dark chocolate chips and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is mixed evenly. Now comes the fun part! Use your hands to pinch off small portions of the mixture. Roll these portions into 1-inch balls. If the mixture feels too sticky, dampen your hands with a little water. This helps the mixture not to stick. Place the rolled balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once you finish forming all the balls, it's time to chill. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the balls to firm up nicely. After they chill, you can enjoy them right away! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. Mixing is key to making great protein balls. Start by using a large bowl. Combine peanut butter and honey until smooth. This step ensures a creamy base. Next, add the dry ingredients. Use rolled oats, protein powder, flaxseed, and salt. Mix well to avoid clumps. I like to use a sturdy spoon. You can also use a spatula for better mixing. Stickiness can make rolling tough. To reduce this, keep your hands slightly damp. A few drops of water help. If the mix is still too sticky, chill it for 10 minutes. This makes it firmer and easier to roll. Also, use a light dusting of oats on your hands. This trick helps keep the mixture from sticking to you. To boost flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon. It adds warmth and depth. You might also explore adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. For extra crunch, sprinkle in some chopped nuts. Each choice adds unique taste and texture. Experiment until you find your favorite mix. Enjoy the process of making these delicious bites! Pro Tips Chill for Firmness: Make sure to refrigerate the protein balls for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape better. Mix and Match Flavors: Feel free to customize your protein balls by adding different mix-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for added texture and flavor. Storage Tips: Store your protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to two weeks, making them a great make-ahead snack. Protein Powder Choices: Use your preferred protein powder, whether it's whey, plant-based, or something else. Each type will slightly change the flavor and texture, so experiment to find your favorite! {{image_2}} You can switch the peanut butter for other nut butters. Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter are great choices. Each butter gives a unique taste. Almond butter adds a slight sweetness, while sunflower seed butter keeps it nut-free. Just make sure you use a natural version for the best flavor and health benefits. Boost the nutrition by adding superfoods. Try mixing in chia seeds, hemp seeds, or pumpkin seeds. They add crunch and extra protein. You can also include dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots. These fruits add natural sweetness and chewiness, making your protein balls even tastier. To make these protein balls vegan, choose maple syrup instead of honey. Use a plant-based protein powder as well. Most nut butters are already vegan, but double-check the label. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious treats, no matter their diet. To keep your protein balls fresh, place them in an airtight container. This helps to keep moisture out and maintain their texture. You can stack them in layers, but use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. These protein balls last up to two weeks in the fridge. They stay tasty and nutritious during this time. If you notice any changes in smell or texture, it's best to toss them out. If you want to save some for later, freezing works great! Place the protein balls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, just thaw them in the fridge overnight. Yes, you can use any protein powder you like. I often switch between whey and plant-based options. Each type brings its own flavor and texture. Just remember that flavors can change the taste of the balls. For example, chocolate protein powder enhances the chocolate flavor, while vanilla gives a different twist. I recommend starting with one to three protein balls a day. These balls are nutritious but also high in calories. They make a great snack or a post-workout treat. Listen to your body and adjust based on your energy needs. If you feel hungry after a workout, you might want more. Absolutely! Making these protein balls is fun and easy for kids. They can help mix the ingredients and roll the balls. It's a great way to teach them about cooking. Plus, they will enjoy eating their creations. Just make sure to supervise them, especially when using sticky ingredients. This post covered how to make tasty protein balls. We looked at the best ingredients and included helpful tips for mixing. You learned how to make them and the best ways to store your snacks. Feel free to try different nut butters or mix in superfoods. Remember, you can get kids involved too! These protein balls are easy, fun, and a great way to boost energy. Enjoy your healthy snack!

No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls

Delicious and nutritious protein balls made with peanut butter, oats, and chocolate.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup natural peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup chocolate protein powder
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • a pinch sea salt

Instructions
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup) until smooth and well blended.
  • Add the chocolate protein powder, rolled oats, ground flaxseed, and sea salt to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until all the dry ingredients are well incorporated.
  • Stir in the dark chocolate chips and vanilla extract, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
  • Using your hands, pinch off small portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. If the mixture is too sticky, you can slightly dampen your hands with water to help roll the balls.
  • Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once all balls are formed, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  • Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Keyword chocolate, no-bake, peanut butter, protein balls, snack