Protein Balls Without Dates

Name: Protein Balls Without Dates
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 12 balls
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup protein powder (vanilla or chocolate); 1/4 cup chocolate chips or dried fruit (optional); 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

These delightful protein balls are a perfect snack for a quick boost of energy without the use of dates. Ideal for those looking for a healthier treat!

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2025-12-24T13:42:40.750Z

These protein balls are a game changer for anyone needing a nutritious snack. Packed with protein and healthy fats, they make for a great post-workout treat or a midday pick-me-up.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        No added sugars or dates required
Quick and easy to make in just minutes
Great for meal prep and on-the-go snacking

      

Perfect for Any Time of Day

Protein balls without dates are a versatile snack that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Whether you need a quick breakfast on busy mornings, a midday energy boost, or a post-workout recovery treat, these protein-packed bites fit the bill perfectly. Their compact size makes them easy to grab and go, ensuring that you can fuel your day without sacrificing health.

Additionally, these protein balls are an excellent choice for those looking for a nutritious snack to curb cravings. They provide a satisfying balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, helping you to stay satiated and energized throughout your day.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best features of this protein balls recipe is its adaptability. You can easily customize the flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. Substitute peanut butter with almond butter for a nut-free option, or use different types of protein powder to find your favorite flavor combination. The addition of chocolate chips or dried fruit is entirely optional, allowing you to create a snack that meets your cravings.

Feel free to experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or incorporating seeds like chia or flax for an extra nutritional boost. This versatility means you'll never get bored of these tasty treats!

Great for Meal Prep

These protein balls are not only easy to make but also perfect for meal prepping. You can whip up a batch at the beginning of the week and have healthy snacks ready to go for those busy days ahead. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and you'll have a nutritious option on hand whenever hunger strikes.

By preparing these protein balls in advance, you can save time and ensure that you're making healthier choices, avoiding the temptation of processed snacks. Plus, they make for a great addition to school lunches, making it easier to provide your family with wholesome snacks.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your protein balls:

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)
1/4 cup chocolate chips or dried fruit (optional)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start making your protein balls!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your protein balls:

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, peanut butter, honey, protein powder, vanilla extract, and salt. If using, add chocolate chips or dried fruit.

Form Balls

Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture is too sticky, add a bit more oats.

Chill

Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Enjoy

Once chilled, enjoy your protein balls as a healthy snack! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Now that you've made your protein balls, feel free to experiment with different add-ins!

Nutritional Benefits

These protein balls are packed with nutrients that support overall health. Rolled oats provide fiber, which aids in digestion and helps to keep you feeling full longer. Peanut butter or almond butter delivers healthy fats and protein, making these bites a well-rounded snack.

Incorporating protein powder adds an extra boost of protein, which is essential for muscle recovery and building. If you opt for chocolate chips or dried fruit, you introduce additional vitamins and minerals, enhancing the nutritional profile of these snacks.

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness and texture of your protein balls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about a week, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the week.

If you want to keep them longer, you can also freeze the protein balls. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container, and they should keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to eat them, just take them out and let them thaw at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

These protein balls can be enjoyed on their own or paired with other healthy snacks. Consider serving them with a side of yogurt or a piece of fruit for a balanced snack. They also make a great addition to smoothies, providing extra texture and protein when blended.

For a fun treat, try drizzling some melted dark chocolate over the protein balls before refrigerating them. This adds a delightful twist that satisfies your sweet tooth while keeping it healthy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Absolutely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or any nut butter of your choice will work.

→ How long do these protein balls last?

They can last up to one week in an airtight container in the fridge.

→ Can I freeze these protein balls?

Yes, they freeze well! Just store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

→ What can I substitute for the protein powder?

You can omit the protein powder or replace it with ground flaxseed or chia seeds for added nutrition.