4 Ingredient Protein Rich Peanut Butter Energy Balls (2024)

Published: · Updated: by Mindy Boyd

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⏲️ 15 minutes mins

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While these 4 ingredient protein balls are a delicious and healthy snack we must have put on at least a couple of pounds perfecting this recipe. But we did it! We have found the perfect ratio of nut butter, oats, maple syrup and chocolate chips so that they taste amazingandstay together.

These no bake protein balls are perfect for a post-workout snack or if you need a little quick snack in the afternoon to satisfy your sweet tooth. That’s me for sure!

4 Ingredient Protein Rich Peanut Butter Energy Balls (1)

I originally started making these because I wanted something with healthy ingredients for an afternoon snack at work. About 3 o’clock my stomach starts to nag me for a little some something. Sure, I could hit the vending machine but peanut m & ms are my best option. Then I thought of these homemade protein balls. They sound perfect because the could give me that little sweetness I need, plus the little energy boost I need to get through until dinner.

So I got on the internet and found a recipe that I wanted to try. Problem was they were hard to work with and then when I ate them at work they pretty much exploded when I took the first bite. It just wasn’t good. I can’t have my desk full of crumbs. Plus, I didn’t get to eat what landed on my desk or the floor 😏.

So, I made it my mission to perfect this energy ball recipe so I could eat them at work, without one of those bibs with the pouch on it to catch all the crumbs.

4 Ingredient Protein Rich Peanut Butter Energy Balls (2)

Table of contents

  • Why you will love these no bake energy balls
  • Ingredients
  • Ingredient Notes
  • How to make 4 ingredient protein balls
  • How many protein balls should you eat?
  • Are protein balls good for you?
  • Can I eat protein balls every day?
  • Tips
  • Storage
  • More High Protein Recipes
  • 4 Ingredient Protein Balls Recipe ↓
4 Ingredient Protein Rich Peanut Butter Energy Balls (3)

Why you will love these no bake energy balls

  • They have a fairly long shelf life so you can make them in advance. We make enough to take to work for a couple of weeks.
  • It’s a simple recipe that takes no time to make.
  • They are the perfect healthy snack for the kids to grab and eat on the go.
  • All you need are 4 simple ingredients you may already have in your cabinet.
  • We have taken the guesswork out of it so you can make perfect protein bites every time.
  • Nut butters contain healthy fats and oats are chock full of essential nutrients. Check out this article for the7 Scientific Health Benefits of Oatmeal. (After you make these, of course 😉.)
4 Ingredient Protein Rich Peanut Butter Energy Balls (4)

Ingredients

See recipe card for exact amounts.

4 Ingredient Protein Rich Peanut Butter Energy Balls (5)

Ingredient Notes

Just 4 basic ingredients are all you need!

Nut Butter– we make these with creamy peanut butter, crunchy peanut butter, almond butter and cashew butter. We have used regular peanut butter but have not used natural peanut butter. I think it would work just fine.

Oats– I have found that quick oats work better than rolled oats (also known as old fashioned oats).The smaller size of the oats helps them stay together better.

Pure Maple Syrup– this is the “glue” that holds everything together.

Mini Chocolate Chips– we like semi-sweet mini chips for this, they are the perfect size.

4 Ingredient Protein Rich Peanut Butter Energy Balls (6)

How to make 4 ingredient protein balls

  1. Add all of the ingredients to a large mixing bowl and stir until well combined.
  2. Scoop the mixture into balls and place on a parchment lined rimmed baking sheet so they are easy to transfer to the refrigerator.
  3. Form into balls and refrigerate until cold.Once cold transfer to an airtight container or portion them out in small containers or zip top bags for a grab-and-go snack.

*Recipe note – use one 12 ounce jar of almond butter or cashew butter instead of 1 1/2 cups of peanut butter.

4 Ingredient Protein Rich Peanut Butter Energy Balls (7)

How many protein balls should you eat?

These 4-ingredient protein balls haveabout 128calories so you should only eat 2 of these as part of a healthy amount of calories and fat. Keep in mind that you need to consider all the foods consumed in a day and keep it within the acceptable range for your height and weight.

4 Ingredient Protein Rich Peanut Butter Energy Balls (8)

Are protein balls good for you?

Yes, in moderation. Oats are good for you and nut butters contain healthy fats. There is a relatively small amount of maple syrup and chocolate chips so if you only eat a couple of these at a time then you should be okay. Two of these make the perfect snack.

Can I eat protein balls every day?

If you only eat a couple then sure, you can eat them every day. As long as you are mindful of how many you are consuming you should be okay. According toMen’s Healthregarding peanut butter “you should aim to eat around an ounce (with a maximum of two ounces) per day; one ounce is two tablespoons of peanut butter”.This recipe has a total of 20 tablespoons of peanut butter and less than that if using almond butter or cashew butter so if you divide that by 32 balls then you are under the recommended daily limit suggested.

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Tips

  • We use a medium cookie scoop and rub it on the side of the bowl to level it off.
  • While the protein ball mixture is a little sticky we don’t put anything on our hands, we just use clean dry hands. It doesn’t stick much at all.
  • Scoop all the dough out and then form them into balls, working quickly.Forming the balls is more pressing them together and shaping them than actually rolling the mixture.
  • We tried a wooden spoon, a metal spoon and spatula and find the spatula works best for mixing these ingredients together.
  • Lee always mixes these for me and he has discovered that holding the spatula sideways and sort of cutting the ingredients together, much like you would if you are making biscuits, works best.
  • I find these are better refrigerated and not room temperature. I also think them being cold helps them stay together better when you are trying to eat them.

Storage

After the power balls have chilled transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for a couple of weeks.

4 Ingredient Protein Rich Peanut Butter Energy Balls (10)

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4 Ingredient Protein Balls Recipe ↓

4 Ingredient Protein Rich Peanut Butter Energy Balls (11)

4 Ingredient Protein Rich Peanut Butter Energy Balls

Mindy Boyd

4 Ingredient Protein Rich Peanut Butter Energy Balls are made with oats and nut butter for a healthy snack the whole family is sure to love.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 0 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 32 protein balls

Ingredients

For peanut butter balls

  • 3 cups quick oats
  • 1 1/2 cups peanut butter or one 12 ounce jar of almond butter or cashew butter
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

I earn a small commission from Instacart for qualifying purchases.

Instructions

  • Add all of the ingredients to a large mixing bowl and stir until well combined.

    3 cups quick oats, 1 1/2 cups peanut butter, 1/2 cup maple syrup, 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

  • Scoop the mixture into balls and place on a parchment lined rimmed baking sheet so they are easy to transfer to the refrigerator.

  • Form into balls and refrigerate until cold, then store in an airtight container.

Notes

Honey can be used instead of maple syrup.

We get 32-36 balls.

**Update – we just made these using Jif extra crunchy peanut butter and for some reason they wouldn’t stay together. I noticed the chunks of peanuts were larger than we are normally used to. To fix the issue we added a 1/4 cup + a couple of tablespoons of creamy peanut butter and were able to form the balls.

Some nut butters may be drier than others and you may have to add additional nut butter if the balls won’t stay together while you are trying to shape them.

Did you make this recipe? We would love it if you would leave us a comment and ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review below!

Nutritional information is for 32 protein balls using peanut butter and maple syrup and is approximate.

See tips, notes, and suggestions in the post above.

Bookmark this page to find it quickly when you are ready to make this recipe!

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 128kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 0.4mg | Sodium: 54mg | Potassium: 107mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 6IU | Vitamin C: 0.02mg | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 1mg

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was with a comment below.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. 4 Ingredient Protein Rich Peanut Butter Energy Balls (16)Niecey says

    This works great with homemade peanut butter too!!!

    Reply

    • 4 Ingredient Protein Rich Peanut Butter Energy Balls (17)Mindy Boyd says

      I have never made homemade peanut butter, now I want to make it to use in this recipe. Thanks!

      Reply

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4 Ingredient Protein Rich Peanut Butter Energy Balls (2024)

FAQs

How many energy balls can I eat a day? ›

These 4-ingredient protein balls have about 128 calories so you should only eat 2 of these as part of a healthy amount of calories and fat. Keep in mind that you need to consider all the foods consumed in a day and keep it within the acceptable range for your height and weight.

Are energy balls good for you? ›

When you eat an energy ball you're getting all the right nutrients your body craves when it gets hungry, which helps keep you content for longer. Not to mention snacking on these is guilt free and completely delicious.

Are protein balls good for weight loss? ›

Protein balls (or bliss balls, if you prefer) are great on-the-go snack if you're trying to eat healthily or looking to lose weight. Filled with fiber-rich and protein-packed ingredients like oats, dates and nuts, they'll keep you fuller for longer – plus you don't need protein powder to make them.

How long can you keep energy balls in the fridge? ›

Store leftover energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months. For nut allergies: In place of the almond or peanut butter, try sunflower seed butter.

Can you eat too many protein balls? ›

Eating too many protein balls in one sitting can lead to bloating, gas, and other digestive issues.In addition, consuming excessive amounts of protein can put a strain on your kidneys. Protein is broken down into waste products that the kidneys must filter out of the blood and excrete through urine.

When should you eat protein balls? ›

You can eat our delicious peanut butter protein balls anytime day or night, but they can be especially useful if you eat them in conjunction with certain daily activities. Pre-Gym: Have a protein ball or two right before your workout for an extra energy boost so you can go further and longer.

Is it OK to eat peanut butter every day? ›

It is OK to eat peanut butter every day, but in moderation. Do not eat more than 2 tablespoons, approximately 32 grams, a day. This protein-packed spread is made by blending roasted peanuts into a thick paste and contains various nutrients that promote good health.

Do protein balls go bad? ›

Do they spoil? Will I get sick? We do not advise eating your protein bites after the recommended one week, but you won't get sick if you do. If bites are held outside of a refrigerated space (longer than 5 days) or hot warm temperatures for a prolonged period of time (48 hours) this can cause the bites to mold.

Does peanut butter give you energy? ›

Peanut butter

Not only do peanuts contain protein, which is converted into energy, but it is also a carbohydrate. Certain types of carbohydrates are converted into quick energy. Consuming a little bit of peanut butter just before working out can give you the little boost you need to get through it.

Does protein lower belly fat? ›

Eat a high protein diet

Many observational studies show that people who eat more protein tend to have less abdominal fat than those who eat a lower protein diet ( 16 , 17 , 18 ). Be sure to include a good protein source at every meal, such as: meat. fish.

Which protein is best for losing fat? ›

Choose protein sources that are nutrient-rich and lower in saturated fat and calories, such as:
  • Lean meats.
  • Seafood.
  • Beans.
  • Soy.
  • Low-fat dairy.
  • Eggs.
  • Nuts and seeds.

Does protein really burn fat? ›

Protein also has benefits for fat loss during intentional calorie restriction. In a 12-month study in 130 overweight people on a calorie-restricted diet, the high-protein group lost 53% more body fat than a normal-protein group eating the same number of calories ( 30 ).

What is the shelf life of protein balls? ›

Shelf Life: Protein Health Balls will remain fresh up to 45 days room temperature & 3 months refrigerated.

Why are energy balls healthy? ›

Full of healthy fat, fiber and protein, these energy balls will keep you full and energized through your afternoon (or morning) slump. Bonus: They are kid-friendly as well and perfect for road trips when stored in a cooler.

How long do Kodiak protein balls last? ›

Takes about 15 minutes from start to finish to make, I would only keep them in the fridge for a max of 5 days so I make these on Sunday night.

How many energy bars can you eat in a day? ›

Generally speaking, it is recommended that an individual consumes one to two protein bars a day to meet their nutritional goals. For individuals looking to gain muscle, consuming 2-3 protein bars a day can be beneficial since muscle-building requires more protein than fat loss.

How much energy should you eat a day? ›

For men of reference body size, the average allowance is 2,900 kcal/day; for women, it is 2,200 kcal.

How often should you eat for energy? ›

Eating regular meals and snacks helps keep your energy at an even level, without highs and lows. “Aim to eat every three to four hours. That means three small-to-moderate-size meals and two snacks,” says Raphael. Make them well balanced, and include complex carbs, proteins, and fats.

Can you eat an energy bar everyday? ›

While protein bars can be enjoyed regularly, consuming them as meal replacements or as your primary protein source isn't recommended. Pay close attention to nutrition labels, as many protein bars contain added sugars, saturated fats and other low-nutrient ingredients.

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