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GET IT NOWThe Oatmeal Protein Balls I Keep in the Fridge All Week
These oatmeal protein balls started out inspired by my peanut butter protein balls, but I wanted to experiment with some extra texture. Not to mention, I don’t always want something quite so heavy in an energy ball. So, I added oats, tweaked some ingredients to lighten them up, and threw in some chocolate chips for good measure. Here’s why I keep making these peanut butter oatmeal protein balls:
- More protein, less sugar and calories – Most energy balls are actually pretty calorie-dense and high in sugar. I set out to make this one higher in actual protein as the main macro. I used peanut butter powder (instead of actual peanut butter) and zero sugar maple syrup. As a result, my oatmeal protein balls have over 9 grams of protein per serving, and each one has just 50 calories and less than 1 gram of sugar!
- Hello, peanut butter and chocolate – These remind me of a peanut butter truffle with texture from the oats and chocolate studded throughout.
- Fast and easy snack – These protein oat balls come together in 15 minutes with 6 simple ingredients, and they’re no bake.
- Flexible storage – I like making a batch to stash in the fridge for quick snacks all week, while my husband keeps them on his desk for days and they’re totally fine.
If you’re looking for easy, protein-packed, and healthy snacks that taste like a treat but are also light, these oatmeal protein balls check all the boxes. Make them with me!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Here I explain the best ingredients for my protein balls with oats, what each one does, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.
- Peanut Butter Powder – Most recipes use regular peanut butter, but I used this instead to get the same flavor, more protein, and fewer calories. I like this brand that has no added sugar or fillers. If you use another, keep in mind the moisture level can vary between brands.
- Protein Powder – Any kind you love will work in these oatmeal protein balls. I use this one because it’s a clean label, doesn’t affect the flavor, and blends in easily.
- Wholesome Yum Zero Sugar Maple Syrup – For a little sweetness. It tastes and drizzles just like regular maple syrup. You could also swap with my Wholesome Yum Zero Sugar Honey.
- Rolled Oats – They give the best chewy texture in no-bake snacks like this. Quick oats work, but they turn out a little mushy. Steel cut oats stay way too tough for me, and I don’t really love the texture.
- Chocolate Chips – I usually use these sugar-free dark chocolate chips. You can also add other add-ins, like raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts.
- Water & Sea Salt
How To Make Oatmeal Protein Balls
I have step-by-step photos here to help you visualize the recipe. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card.
- Mix the dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the peanut butter powder, protein powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Add the wet ingredients. Pour in the water and maple syrup, and stir until a dough forms with a soft, play-dough-like texture.
- Stir in the oats and chocolate chips. I like to press the mixture a bit with a spatula to help it come together.
- Scoop and roll. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop the dough and roll into small balls, placing them on the sheet as you go.
- Chill or enjoy right away. You can enjoy the oatmeal protein balls immediately, or pop them in the refrigerator for a firmer texture.
My Recipe Tips
- If the dough feels too dry or crumbly, add a little more water. If I need to do this, I add it 1-3 teaspoons at a time, so it doesn’t become too much. If it’s too sticky, mix in a bit more peanut butter powder until it firms up. The texture of these protein oatmeal balls should feel like soft play dough that’s easy to roll.
- Use a cookie scoop to get the perfect consistent size. This also prevents the “dough” from warming up too much and becoming sticky to work with. I use this small cookie scoop.
- For a prettier appearance, save some chocolate chips for the outside. That’s what I did for my pictures here — I stirred some into the dough, and pressed the rest into the outside of the protein oat balls after rolling them.
- You can refrigerate the rolled bites or eat them at room temperature. Chilling gives them a firmer texture that’s easier to eat, store, pack, or grab on the go.
- Want extra flavor? Feel free to mix in a little splash of vanilla extract with the peanut butter or a sprinkle of cinnamon with the dry ingredients.
Oatmeal Protein Balls
My oatmeal protein balls are packed with peanut butter, oats, and chocolate. Just 50 calories each with 9 grams of protein per serving!
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Instructions
Tap on the times in the instructions to start a kitchen timer.
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In a large bowl, stir together the peanut butter powder, protein powder, and salt.
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Mix in the water and maple syrup, until a mixture with the texture of play dough forms. If it’s too dry, add more water, 1-3 teaspoons at a time. If it’s too wet, add a little more peanut butter powder.
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Add the oats and chocolate chips. Mix well, pressing with a spatula, until uniform.
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a small cookie scoop to scoop the mixture and roll into 1-inch balls. Place on the baking sheet.
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Enjoy the oatmeal protein balls right away, or for a firmer texture, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
LAST STEP: Leave a rating to help other readers, or tag me @wholesomeyum on Instagram. I’d love to hear from you!
Maya’s Recipe Notes
Serving size: 2 1-inch oatmeal protein balls
- Tips: Check out my recipe tips above to help you get the perfect texture in your protein oatmeal balls and make them look pretty.
- Storage & meal prep: These are perfect for making ahead! Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days, or in the fridge for up to 1-2 weeks.
- Freeze: They keep well in the freezer for at least 3 months. You can thaw completely to eat, or even enjoy them half-frozen (let them sit on the counter for a few minutes).
I provide nutrition facts as a courtesy. Have questions about calculations or why you got a different result? Please see my nutrition policy.
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Oatmeal Protein Balls
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