Want a quick snack without all the packaging waste? Here’s an amazing – yet simple – alternative to your store-bought protein bar: these Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Protein Balls! Not only are they a great energy-boosting snack, but they’re made with minimal ingredients and only take 10 minutes to make.
For these peanut butter and chocolate chip protein balls you’ll need:
- Rolled oats
- Protein powder – I opt for vegan vanilla-flavored protein powder, but unflavored would also work.
- Shredded coconut – Unsweetened is best.
- Peanut butter – Use a creamy natural peanut butter (one with just peanuts and salt) to achieve the right consistency.
- Agave
- Vanilla extract
- Chocolate Chips – I use semi-sweet chocolate for a subtle extra bit of sweetness, but dark chocolate is also tasty!
Notes:
What texture should protein balls be?
The dough should be slightly sticky when rolling but shouldn’t stick to your hands. The protein balls will firm up in the fridge too, a cookie dough-like texture is key.
What can you do if the ingredients are hard to mix?
If your peanut butter is on the thicker side, adding a tablespoon of water or non-dairy milk will make it easier to mix or fix a too-dry texture. It isn’t always necessary, so just look out for that cookie dough-like texture to know if you need more liquid or not.
How long are protein balls good for?
These protein balls will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator or up to three months in the freezer.
Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Protein Balls
Ingredients
- 1½ c rolled oats
- ½ c vegan vanilla protein powder
- ½ c unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 c creamy peanut butter
- ¼ c agave
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-4 tbsp water or non-dairy milk (if needed)
- ⅓ c vegan chocolate chips
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine oats, protein powder, and coconut.
- Add peanut butter, agave, and vanilla and mix until well combined. Test the consistency of the mixture by pinching it in your hands. If the mixture is too dry and doesn’t hold together, add water or non-dairy milk one tablespoon at a time until a cookie dough-like consistency is formed.
- Fold in chocolate chips.
- Using your hands, roll the mixture into balls. This recipe makes about 18 tablespoon-sized protein balls.
- Enjoy!