Fitness / July 26, 2024

Oatmeal Protein Balls

Embrace the power of oatmeal with this high-protein treat – it’s as healthy as it is tasty! And there’s no baking involved at all…

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I’m a sucker for oatmeal cookies, especially when there’s chocolate involved. And I always overindulge. I think it’s because there’s oatmeal in them. I somehow convince myself oatmeal cookies are healthy, you know, because of the oatmeal! But we all know they’re loaded with carbs and sugar. Heck, that’s why they’re so good! That’s where oatmeal protein balls come in. I first came across these during a hectic period at work when I needed a quick, nutritious snack to keep me energized throughout the day. The combo of simple ingredients and no-bake preparation made them an instant favorite for me and my family.

Oatmeal protein balls combine the wholesome goodness of oats with the protein boost of whey powder, making them perfect for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet. Their chewy texture, complemented by the crunch of chocolate chips (preferably dark, right?) and the sweetness of raisins, really makes this taste more like a dessert. And if you like this low-carb treat, try these Peanut Butter Banana Protein Balls or these Coconut Apricot Energy Balls!

Are Oatmeal Protein Balls Healthy?

These oatmeal protein balls are low in carbs and sugar yet somehow manage to taste like a dessert. So, are they healthy? I’d say yes! They’re packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, helping to keep you full longer.

If you want to make the recipe vegan-friendly, swap the whey with a plant-based protein powder and source a dairy-free variety of chocolate chips. And while I think these protein balls are already low in sugar, you could halve the amount of maple syrup. Also, if you’re using big-box peanut butter, remember that they tend to have added sugar and hydrogenated oils. Pick the all-natural peanut butter instead, which usually only has one ingredient—peanuts.

The binding power of peanut butter…

Peanut butter is a key ingredient in these oatmeal protein balls, and it’s not just for its flavor. One of the great things about this recipe is that you don’t need to turn your oven on once. It’s a bake-free treat. And just how do we do that? Well, the peanut butter acts as a binding agent. It helps to hold the ingredients together so that the balls maintain their shape. But if you have a nut allergy, you’ll definitely want to avoid using it—try sunflower seed butter instead. It’s a suitable alternative and provides similar texture and nutritional benefits.

INGREDIENTS

3/4 cup oats
1/4 cup whey protein powder
1/4 tsp cinnamon powder
1 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp chocolate chips
1 tbsp raisins
1/4 cup peanut butter
2 tbsp almond milk

INSTRUCTIONS

Prep

Combine oats, protein powder, and cinnamon.

Mix

Mix in peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, chocolate chips and raisins.

Form

Add almond milk; form into a ball, then divide into 10-12 balls. Refrigerate for 30 minutes and serve.

Devour!

FAQs & Tips

How to Make Ahead and Store

You can prepare these oatmeal protein balls ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If you’re making them in bulk or just don’t think you’ll eat them all within a week, they freeze well. Just thaw them in the fridge before eating.

Can I eat oatmeal protein balls every day?

Considering that they’re low in carbs and sugar, I’d say yes! That said, stick to the serving size because you don’t want to go overboard, even with a healthy snack.

What if My mixture is too dry (or too wet)?

If the mixture is too dry, I’d add more almond milk until it reaches your desired consistency. And if it’s too wet, add a bit more oats or protein powder.

Serving Suggestions

Oatmeal protein balls are perfect on their own, but you can also pair them with fresh fruit for a more well-rounded snack. They are also great alongside Low-Carb Smoothies or your favorite cup of coffee. I’ve even cut these up and sprinkled them on my yogurt.

And if you’re serving this as part of a healthy dessert tray, pair it with our Healthy Gluten-Free Samoa Scones with Greek Yogurt and this surprisingly Paleo German Chocolate Cake!

Oatmeal Protein Balls

This high-protein treat is as healthy as it is tasty!

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 0

Total Time 10

Servings

Calories 76kcal

Author Jonathan Porter

Ingredients

3/4 cup oats
1/4 cup whey protein powder
1/4 tsp cinnamon powder
1 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp chocolate chips
1 tbsp raisins
1/4 cup peanut butter
2 tbsp almond milk

Instructions

Combine the oats, protein powder, and cinnamon in a large bowl. Stir well to combine.
Add the peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Now add the chocolate chips and raisins and stir to combine.
Add the almond milk and use your hands to combine the mixture until it comes together into a ball.
Divide the mixture into 10 or 12 even-sized balls. Place the balls onto a tray and let set in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Serve the no-bake oatmeal protein balls on a plate and sprinkle with some additional cinnamon powder.