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Easy No-Bake Protein Balls: Best 5-Ingredient Healthy Snack

no-bake protein balls - featured image

These easy no-bake protein balls are made with just five simple ingredients and come together in under 15 minutes. They’re the perfect healthy snack for busy days, post-workout refueling, or satisfying that afternoon slump without turning on the oven.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (90g) rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup (128g) creamy peanut butter
  • 1/3 cup (113g) honey
  • 1/3 cup (60g) mini chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons (14g) ground flaxseed

Instructions

  1. Combine the dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup (90g) rolled oats, 1/3 cup (60g) mini chocolate chips, and 2 tablespoons (14g) ground flaxseed. Stir them together with your spatula until everything is evenly distributed.
  2. Add the wet ingredients. Spoon 1/2 cup (128g) creamy peanut butter and 1/3 cup (113g) honey into the bowl with the dry ingredients.
  3. Mix until combined. Stir everything together with your rubber spatula, using a folding motion. After about a minute of vigorous stirring, the mixture will come together into a thick, sticky dough.
  4. Chill the mixture (optional but helpful). If your kitchen is warm or your peanut butter was very soft, pop the bowl in the fridge for 15-20 minutes.
  5. Roll into balls. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form a smooth ball, about 1-inch in diameter. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
  6. Repeat until all dough is used. This recipe makes about 16-18 balls.
  7. Chill for at least 30 minutes. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and let the balls firm up.
  8. Transfer to storage container. Once chilled, move the protein balls to an airtight container. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper if stacking.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for easier mixing. Taste the dough before rolling to adjust sweetness. Don’t overmix to maintain oat texture. If dough is too dry, add a teaspoon of honey or peanut butter; if too wet, add a tablespoon of oats. Chill for at least 30 minutes for best texture. Store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake protein balls, healthy snack, 5-ingredient, peanut butter, oats, chocolate chips, easy snack, gluten-free option, vegan option