Published 12/8/2023 • Updated 6/16/2024 Peanut butter protein balls are the perfect high-protein snack to munch on post-workout or mid-day when you need something to tide you over! These protein balls have 9g of protein per ball and do not require a food processor! These peanut butter protein balls are our most popular protein ball recipe on the site and rightfully so. They’re made with just 6 ingredients and don’t require a food processor. I almost always have a bag of these protein balls in my freezer because I know hanger can strike at any moment. More recently, I’ve taught my 2 nephews how to make peanut butter protein balls and now every time I see them they expect some balls!
What is in these peanut butter protein balls?
Peanut Butter- Though peanut butter adds a whole bunch of amazing flavor to this recipe, it also acts as a nice binder as well has adds moisture to this ball recipe. So, when you are deciding what peanut butter to use in this recipe, make sure it is DRIPPY peanut butter! Protein powder- Not to scare you, but what type of protein powder you use will dictate how chalky your protein balls are! We used Garden of Life Plant-Based Protein Powder in these balls and you can barely tell that there is protein powder. I’ve also made this recipe with Vital Proteins Vanilla Collagen Powder countless times. Rolled Oats- Oats not only add a healthy dose of fiber to these balls, but they give these protein balls a nice bite and act as a great binder to soak up extra moisture. Honey- Honey is both the sweetener and the glue that holds these balls together! Don’t skip it! Chia Seeds- These protein balls are a great source of protein AND fiber and omega 3 fatty acids because of these chia seeds! Chocolate Chips- I mean, is there a better combination than peanut butter and chocolate? I didn’t think so. Add the mini chocolate chips! Feel free to replace the chocolate chips with vegan chocolate chips or even chopped up chocolate bar!
Variations
Instead of peanut butter, try a different nut butter such as cashew or almond. Add different add-ins into the dough for an easy twist such as: Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein Powder
Chopped nuts Mini M&M’s Pumpkin seeds Raisins
What is the best protein powder for protein balls?
We get this question all the time. What is the best protein powder? Lucky for you, we’ve done an extensive protein powder review on the site and have some options for you below. You’re more than welcome to use a whey-based protein powder or plant-based. Quick tip: make sure you like the taste of your protein powder. We’re not huge fans of stevia, so just watch for that on the label.
Can I use collagen powder instead?
You sure can! I actually prefer it. Vital Proteins Vanilla Collagen has been my go-to in this protein balls recipe. I love how smooth and creamy it is and it doesn’t taste like fake sure! Plus, it’s also high in protein.
Raw Organic Protein
Pure Whey Protein
Protein Powder
Organic Whey Protein
Organic Protein Powder
Why aren’t my peanut butter protein balls sticking together?
If your protein balls are not sticking together you probably need to add a little bit more moisture. Add a teaspoon of water at a time until your protein balls stick together to form a ball! PS: this is why we recommend using an all-natural, drippy peanut butter because that extra moisture helps these balls stick together.
Can I use a different nut butter?
If you don’t have peanut butter on hand you can substitute the peanut butter with any other DRIPPY nut butter. Just be sure it’s DRIPPY.
Cashew Butter Almond Butter Sunflower Seed Butter
How do I make protein balls all the same size?
You can make sure all your protein balls are the same size by using a cookie dough scooper or a tablespoon.
How to Store Protein Balls
If you look in my freezer, there is always a bag of protein balls! And this, is my preferred way to store them.
Protein Balls Recipes
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