What are the 4 ingredient protein balls?

They’re simple no-bake snacks made with four pantry staples: rolled oats, nut or seed butter, a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, and a mix-in such as chocolate chips or protein powder. You stir everything in one bowl, chill the mixture, and roll it into bite-sized balls. These protein balls are quick to prepare and customizable, making them perfect for busy days or meal prep.

Are protein balls actually healthy?

Yes when made with whole, minimally processed ingredients, protein balls can be a smart and healthy snack. They offer a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, which help support energy, muscle recovery, and satiety. However, because they’re calorie-dense, it’s best to enjoy them in moderation especially if you're including add-ins like chocolate or extra sweetener.

What do you put in protein balls?

The beauty of protein balls lies in their flexibility. The basic four ingredients include oats, nut butter, honey or maple syrup, and a mix-in. You can customize them with chia seeds, flaxseed, dried fruit, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, or your favorite protein powder. This allows you to tailor them to your dietary goals whether you want more fiber, protein, or flavor variety.

What holds protein balls together?

The combination of sticky nut butter and liquid sweetener acts as the binding agent in protein balls. Once mixed, the oats absorb some of the moisture, giving the mixture a dough-like texture. Chilling the mixture helps firm it up, making it easier to roll and hold shape. The result is a bite that’s dense, chewy, and satisfying.

4 Ingredient Protein Balls – 5-Min Healthy Power Snack Recipe -

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter

1/3 cup honey or maple syrup

1/4 cup chocolate chips or mix-ins of choice

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Instructions

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until combined.

2. Chill dough in the fridge for 20–30 minutes.

3. Scoop and roll into balls using your hands.

4. Store in fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for 3 months.

Notes

You can customize with chia seeds, protein powder, or dried fruit.

Make nut-free by using sunflower seed butter.

Adjust consistency by adding more oats or sweetener.

Author: Quinto
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Snacks
Method: No-bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 balls
Calories: 160
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 45mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg