Skip the oven and satisfy cravings with these powerhouse no-bake protein balls. Forget dates, this blend relies on oats, seeds, and nut butter for a satisfyingly chewy base packed with fibre and plant based goodness. Protein powder adds a substantial boost, while a touch of maple syrup and optional chocolate chips deliver just the right sweetness. Roll them up in minutes for a grab and go snack that fuels without fuss. Perfectly portable energy.

• Serves: 12 balls
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes

Ingredients

• 90 g (1 cup) rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
• 60 g (½ cup) almond butter or peanut butter (smooth, unsweetened)
• 40 g (⅓ cup) vanilla or chocolate whey protein powder (or plant-based equivalent)
• 30 g (¼ cup) ground flaxseed
• 15 g (2 tbsp) chia seeds
• 30 g (2 tbsp) pure maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice), plus more if needed
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp fine sea salt
• 45 g (⅓ cup) mini dark chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

• Prep the Dry Ingredients:
  • In a medium bowl, combine rolled oats, protein powder, ground flaxseed, chia seeds, and salt. Stir well.
• Combine Wet Ingredients:
  • In a separate small bowl, whisk together the almond butter, maple syrup/honey, vanilla extract, and 2 tbsp almond milk until smooth.
• Mix & Bind:
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly with a spatula or mix with clean hands until fully combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed firmly.
  • If too dry, add almond milk ½ tsp at a time. If too sticky, add a little more ground flaxseed or oats.
• Add Mix-ins & Form Balls:
  • Fold in the chocolate chips (if using).
  • Scoop out 1-tbsp portions of the mixture. Roll firmly between your palms to form compact balls. If the mixture crumbles, press harder or dampen your hands slightly.

Tips:

• Consistency is Key: If the mixture seems too wet after adding the wet ingredients, let it sit for 5 minutes. The chia and flax will absorb moisture and thicken it up before rolling.
• Sticky Hands Solution: Lightly dampen your hands with water before rolling each ball to prevent the mixture from sticking excessively.
• Texture Preference: For a finer texture, pulse the oats in a food processor a few times before mixing.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Can I use a different nut butter? Yes. Any smooth, natural nut or seed butter (like sunflower seed butter) works. Avoid overly runny or heavily sweetened varieties.
• How do I store these? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw briefly before eating.
• Are these really no added sugar? The recipe uses minimal maple syrup/honey for binding and sweetness. For truly no added sugar, omit the syrup/honey and the chocolate chips, ensuring your protein powder is unsweetened. The mixture will be less sticky but still workable.