5-Minute Peanut Butter Protein Balls

These no bake peanut butter protein balls are made with just three simple ingredients and pack over 12 grams of protein in every bite. They’re soft, chewy, and naturally sweet, making them perfect for meal prep, a quick post-workout snack, or something to grab when you’re craving something good and filling.

No Bake Peanut Butter Protein Balls

These no bake peanut butter protein balls are honestly one of my favorite things to meal prep. I make a batch in five minutes flat and keep them in the fridge for the week. Each one packs over 12 grams of protein and feels more like a treat than a healthy snack. If you like these, you’ll probably love my protein cottage cheese chocolate mousse or these soft and chewy protein cookies.

They’re soft, chewy, naturally sweet, and super easy to make with just three ingredients. No oats, no baking, and no blender needed. I bring a couple with me when I go out or keep some in my bag. They’re perfect after a workout or when I need a quick bite to stop me from raiding the pantry.

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Protein Balls Recipe

✿ Quick and easy. These Peanut Butter Protein Balls come together in one bowl with just 3 ingredients. No oats, no flour, no blender, and no baking. Just mix, roll, and chill.

✿ Healthy and high protein. Each ball has over 12 grams of protein, and they’re naturally low in carbs. Vegan, gluten-free, and grain-free — with no added sugar.

✿ Soft and satisfying. These aren’t dry or chalky like some protein snacks. They’re chewy, a little sweet, and have a clean flavor without any weird aftertaste.

✿ Easy to customize. Add chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or dip them in dark chocolate. You can turn them into bars or switch up the flavor with spices or different nut butters. They’re perfect pre- or post-workout, or when you need something quick to hold you over.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what I used to make the base, and honestly, it couldn’t be easier. You don’t need anything fancy, just a few pantry staples that I almost always have on hand.

• Peanut butter – I always use natural, creamy peanut butter with no added sugar or oils. The smoother, the better
• Protein powder – Vanilla works great here, but you can switch it up. I like a whey-casein blend for texture
• Maple syrup – Just a small amount gives the perfect natural sweetness. You can sub honey or agave.

That’s it. You don’t need oats, flour, or anything else — unless you want to play with mix-ins (I usually do).

What’s the Best Protein Powder to Use?

For this recipe, I’ve had the best results using a whey protein or a whey-casein blend. They mix really well and give that perfect doughy texture you want for rolling. A blend also makes the mixture more stable and easier to work with. Depending on the brand of peanut butter you’re using, you might need to add a little oat or almond flour if the dough feels too soft.

Casein or vegan protein powders are fine too, but they’re a lot more absorbent. You’ll probably need to add extra peanut butter or a splash of almond milk to help the dough come together.

Collagen protein works, but just a heads up — the dough might turn out a little sticky. If that happens, stir in a bit of almond or oat flour to thicken it up.

For flavor, I usually stick with a good vanilla protein that’s sweetened naturally. Nothing artificial, nothing chalky. If your protein is unflavored, just add an extra splash of maple syrup to balance it out.

How to Make Peanut Butter Protein Balls

This is a quick overview of how I make Peanut Butter Protein Balls , with tips along the way. You’ll find the full ingredients & instructions in the recipe card below.

1. I start by mixing the peanut butter, protein powder, and maple syrup in a medium bowl. I use a fork or a rubber spatula and stir until a thick dough forms. If the dough feels sticky, I add a little almond flour or oat flour. If it feels dry, I splash in a little almond milk. Super easy to adjust.
2. Then, I roll the dough into small balls using my hands. If the dough sticks, I just coat my hands with a little water or oat flour.
3. I place the balls on a tray lined with parchment and pop them in the fridge for an hour. After that, they’re good to go — and they hold up really well in the freezer too.

Peanut Butter Protein Balls Recipe Variations

• Keto version: Use a low-carb protein powder and sugar-free maple syrup
• Nut-free: Swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini
• No protein powder: Sub with almond flour or oat flour and adjust until the texture is right
• Chocolate dipped: Melt dark chocolate and dip each ball halfway, then chill
• Cookie dough style: Add sugar-free chocolate chips or cacao nibs
• Turn into bars: Press the dough into a lined pan, chill, and slice
• Mix-ins: I’ve tried adding cinnamon, coconut, pumpkin seeds, even M&Ms

Storing and Freezing

To store: I keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. They stay chewy and fresh.

To freeze: I freeze them in a zip bag or container for up to four months. Just thaw what you need overnight in the fridge or leave on the counter for 10 minutes.

Are Protein Balls Actually Healthy?

If you’re making them with simple & whole ingredients , absolutely. These peanut butter protein balls are made with natural peanut butter, clean protein powder, and just a touch of maple syrup. No added sugar, no artificial junk, and nothing processed. They’re packed with healthy fats, plant-based protein, and fiber to help keep you full longer. Compared to store-bought snacks or bars that are loaded with syrups and preservatives, this is a way better option you can feel good about grabbing any time of day.

FAQs About Peanut Butter Protein Balls

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