Almond Butter Protein Balls or energy balls, are a no-bake healthy snack made in minutes. Packed with oats, almond flour, and almond butter.
One of my favorite make ahead snacks! Along with Lemon Coconut Protein Balls, their amazing zippy cousin.
Almond Butter Protein Balls
I first became obsessed with no-bake protein balls during pregnancy, and they also became my go to post workout snack. They are packed with protein and nutrients, and have only good things in them. Best of all, they only take 10 minutes to make and are no-bake! And don't worry if you don't have a food processor, they can easily be made in a blender too. Instructions below!
No-Bake Protein Balls Ingredients
Here is a basic list of ingredients for these protein balls. Full list in the printable recipe below!
- Oats - gluten free if needed
- Almond butter - creamy, no stir kind
- Almond flour
- Pitted Dates
- Vanilla & Almond Extract
- Honey - or agave nectar
How to make Almond Butter Protein Balls
I have a couple different ways to make these. Not everyone owns a processor (me for a long time!) so I also included how they're made with a blender below.
If you don't have a food processor:
- Use a blender to blend the oats until powdery, add the dates and blend well.
- Transfer to a mixing bowl and add other ingredients and mix well.
- Use a Tablespoon to measure, and shape/roll into balls. Chill in airtight container in fridge for 1-2 hours to set up.
If you use a food processor:
- Add all ingredients and process until well combined, 1-2 minutes.
- Use a Tablespoon to measure and shape/roll into balls. Chill in airtight container in fridge for 1-2 hours to set up.
Are Protein Balls good for you?
Yes yes yes. These energy balls are high protein due to the almond flour, almond butter, and added vanilla protein powder. They are also high in fiber, iron, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates making them a heart healthy, high energy snack. They are naturally sweetened with dried dates and honey (or agave nectar for a vegan friendly option) and are also gluten-free.
Can you eat raw oats?
Yes, it is safe to eat the traditional raw oats you find in the grocery store, which have been heated and steamed during processing, destroying harmful bacteria. The processing ensures safety for raw consumption. That being said, eating large portions can cause some bloating or uncomfortable digestion, so don't go eating all of these at once, even though you may be tempted to!
They are a great choice if you're watching your weight because they are high in fiber and a complex carb, helping you feel full longer.
Why won't my protein balls stick together?
Your mixture may be too dry. Here are a few different ways to remedy that. Pick one or a few:
- Add water ½ teaspoon at a time until mixture reaches desired consistency
- Add more nut/seed butter
- Add more liquid sweetener such as honey, agave nectar, or maple syrup
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of coconut oil
- Add 1-2 pieces of fresh fruit to moisten the mixture
How do you store energy balls?
You can store protein balls in an airtight container:
- Room temperature 3-5 days
- Refrigerator up to 2 weeks
- Freezer up to 3 months
More breakfast ideas:
If you need more delicious breakfast ideas, I have a few for you! Some are quick, some are not. But they are ALL favorites.
- Classic Coffee Cake Recipe
- Banana Nut Oatmeal
- Best Homemade Orange Rolls
- Lemon Blueberry Bread Pudding
Almond Butter Protein Balls
Equipment
- Food Processor or Blender
Ingredients
- 1 cup oats (100g) gluten free if needed
- 6 dates, chopped (40g)
- ½ cup almond flour (50g)
- ¼ cup vanilla protein powder of choice 1 scoop (25g)
- ⅓ cup almond butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons almond extract
- 3 Tablespoons honey or agave nectar
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
If using a food processor:
- Combine all ingredients in the large bowl with large blade and process for 1-2 minutes, until well combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally. Use a Tablespoon to measure out portions and roll/shape into balls.
If using blender:
- In the blender, blend oats until crumbly and fine, no big pieces left. Add chopped dates and blend until well combined and no large pieces left.
- Transfer mixture to mixing bowl and add remaining ingredients. Mix well. Use a Tablespoon to measure out portions and roll/shape into balls.
Notes
- Room temperature 3-5 days
- Refrigerator up to 2 weeks
- Freezer up to 3 months
- Add water ½ teaspoon at a time until mixture reaches desired consistency
- Add more nut/seed butter
- Add more liquid sweetener such as honey, agave nectar, or maple syrup
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of coconut oil
- Add 1-2 pieces of fresh fruit to moisten the mixture
Nutrition
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