Easy Protein Ball Recipes

Protein balls are the ultimate snack: quick, healthy, and totally customizable. Whether you’re looking for a post-run recovery snack, a midday energy boost, or a healthy dessert alternative, these no-bake treats have got you covered. Here are 5 ridiculously easy protein ball recipes using simple ingredients and no fancy equipment. They’re no-bake, mess-free, and packed with energy — plus, they taste like dessert. What’s not to love?

1. Classic Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip

These protein balls taste just like cookie dough and are perfect for on-the-go snackers.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 scoop vanilla or chocolate protein powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
2. Chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes if the mix is too sticky.
3. Roll into 1-inch balls.
4. Store in an airtight container in the fridge (lasts up to 1 week).

2. Coconut Almond Bliss

If you like Almond Joy candy bars, you’ll love this healthier version of them. They’re great for an afternoon pick-me-ups or a pre-run snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
• 1/2 cup almond butter
• 1/4 cup honey or agave
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
• 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine everything in a bowl.
2. Mix well and roll into balls.
3. Optionally, roll them in extra shredded coconut.
4. Refrigerate and snack away!

3. Mocha Energy Boost

For an easy breakfast or protein-packed snack, try these bites that taste like a coffee-infused brownie.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup oats
• 1/2 cup cashew or almond butter
• 1 scoop chocolate or mocha protein powder
• 1 tbsp instant coffee or espresso powder
• 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
• 1 tbsp cacao powder
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

1. Stir all ingredients together until combined.
2. Chill if needed, then roll into balls.
3. Store in the fridge or freezer for longer shelf life.

Chocolate Banana Protein Balls

This chocolatey treat is delicious and packs a potassium punch with the banana.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup oats
• 1/4 cup protein powder (chocolate works best)
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 2 tbsp nut butter
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• Optional: chocolate chips or crushed nuts for texture

Instructions:

1. Mash the banana in a bowl.
2. Stir in all other ingredients until well combined.
3. Scoop and roll into balls.
4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before eating.

Note: These are a little softer, so best kept in the fridge.

Coconut Almond Energy Bites

These bites are vegan, naturally sweet, and packed with healthy fats.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pitted dates
• 1/2 cup almonds (or almond meal)
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Blend dates and almonds in a food processor until sticky and crumbly.
2. Add coconut, chia seeds, coconut oil, and vanilla. Blend until it forms a dough-like consistency.
3. Roll into balls and refrigerate until firm.

Storage: Keep in the fridge or freezer for longer shelf life.

Quick Tips for Protein Ball Success:

• Too sticky? Add more oats or protein powder.
• Too dry? Mix in a bit more nut butter or a splash of milk.
• Want more crunch? Add chopped nuts, seeds, or cacao nibs.

More Healthy Snack and Meal Ideas

• Healthy Lunch Ideas
• 17 Quick and Healthy Breakfasts for Runners
• Healthy Snacks for Teenage Athletes
• How to Add More Protein to Your Diet

Running coach, avid runner, and fitness writer Christine Luff is an RRCA-certified running coach, ACE-certified personal trainer, and fitness nutrition specialist. Founder of the website Run for Good and author of the book Run for Good: How to Create a Lifelong Running Habit, she coaches runners, from beginners to advanced, who are training for races, from 5Ks to marathons.