This oatmeal protein balls recipe is ready in 5 minutes and combines rolled oats, protein powder of your choice, chia seeds, dark chocolate chips, and a little sweetener for a delicious and quick snack!
Bloggers have been making homemade balls for ages now, and this recipe is one of my latest combinations. There’s something so satisfying about having a batch of oatmeal balls ready in the fridge for quick, nutritious healthy snacking. Whether you’re grabbing one before your morning walk, in between work calls, or tossing them into a lunchbox, these little energy bites are so easy to make. And you can easily boost their nutritional profile by adding protein powder—and that’s exactly what I’ve done with these Oatmeal Protein Balls.
Made with pantry ingredients like oats, chia seeds, shredded coconut, and a touch of sweetness from honey or maple syrup, these no-bake bites are ideal for a nut free, room temperature friendly snack. They’re simple to whip up, require no baking, and are naturally full of healthy fats and fiber. The added protein powder makes them a more balanced snack that can help keep you full longer.
Today I’m sharing my latest oatmeal protein balls recipe that’s made with Cocomo peanut butter powder. Whether you’re a fan of almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or love the flavor of peanut butter oatmeal balls, these bites are for you. If you don’t have this powder in your pantry – just use any protein powder you love!
What Are Oatmeal Protein Balls?
Oatmeal protein balls—also known as energy bites or no-bake snack balls—are compact, bite sized treats that deliver on taste, energy, and nutrition. These portable snacks typically include a mix of rolled oats, sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, some kind of fat (like nut butter or coconut oil), and add-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or seeds. Of course you can make bars instead, but balls are easiest to roll and store without crumbling apart.
What makes oatmeal protein balls unique is their macro-balanced profile: they’re high in fiber, rich in healthy fats, and now with added protein powder, they also provide a solid dose of protein to help sustain energy and support muscle recovery.
Nutrition Facts (Per 1 Ball – makes 10 total)
- Calories: ~150
- Protein: ~6–8g
- Fat: ~7g
- Carbohydrates: ~16g
Does Oatmeal Have Protein?
Yes, it does! While oatmeal isn’t usually considered a high-protein food, it still contains a good amount of plant-based protein. A ½ cup serving of rolled oats contains about 5 grams of protein on its own. Combine that with a scoop of your favorite protein powder, and you’re well on your way to turning your snack into a more substantial option.
Want to supercharge your morning oats? Try this high protein oatmeal recipe that’s also packed with protein and flavor!
How to Add Protein to Oatmeal Balls
I used a peanut butter powder in this recipe that has a very simple ingredient list and brings a lot of vanilla peanut flavor along with added protein, but you can use any kind of protein powder you want or stick to natural ingredients like nut butters and seeds.
Here are a few ways:
- Protein Powder: As in today’s recipe, just ½ cup of your favorite protein powder will boost each bite with protein.
- Nut or Seed Butters: Think almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or peanut butter. These add protein and healthy fats.
- Chia Seeds and Flax: Both offer plant-based protein, omega-3s, and fiber.
Looking for another fun way to sip your protein? Check out this creamy coffee protein shake recipe!
How to Make Oatmeal Protein Balls
Making these energy bites couldn’t be easier. There’s no oven, no fancy equipment—just a large mixing bowl and a few minutes of your time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats (certified gluten free oats if needed)
- ½ cup Cocomo Original peanut powder
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips
- ¼ cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp water (as needed)
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the rolled oats, Cocomo protein powder, chia seeds, shredded coconut, and dark chocolate chips.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Stir in the honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of water. Mix until everything is well combined. Add more water, 1 teaspoon at a time, if the mixture is too dry.
Step 3: Roll into Balls
Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to roll into balls. You should get about 10-12 balls, depending on the size.
Step 4: Chill in the Fridge
Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill for at least 30 minutes until firm.
Step 5: Store for Easy Snacking
Transfer to an airtight container and keep them stored in the fridge. They stay good for up to a week, and can be kept at room temperature for a few hours when you’re on the go. You can also freeze them!
Oatmeal Protein Balls
This oatmeal protein balls recipe is ready in 5 minutes and combines rolled oats, protein powder of your choice, chia seeds, dark chocolate chips, and a little sweetener for a delicious and quick snack!
Keyword chia seeds, chocolate chips, oats
Prep Time 5 minutes Total Time 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats certified gluten free oats
- ½ cup Cocomo Original peanut butter powder
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips
- ¼ cup shredded coconut
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 –2 tbsp water
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, protein powder, chia seeds, shredded coconut, and dark chocolate chips.
Stir in honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of water. Add more water, 1 tsp at a time, until mixture holds together.
Roll into bite-sized balls using your hands or a small scoop.
Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy within one week.
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 tbsp ground flax seeds
- Mini dried fruit bits
- A sprinkle of cinnamon or sea salt
- Swap in sunflower seed butter or peanut butter for different flavor profiles
- Roll them in melted chocolate
Your Go-To Healthy Snack: Kid Approved!
These Oatmeal Protein Balls check all the boxes: they’re quick, customizable, and loaded with feel-good ingredients. They’re great for healthy snacking, kid-approved, and work just as well before a workout as they do in the afternoon slump. You can even double the batch and freeze them for longer storage.
If you love to make your own snacks, these protein-packed energy balls are for you. They’re endlessly versatile!
More recipes like this:
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Oats Balls
- No Bake Honey Coconut Bites
- Chocolate Coconut Oat Balls
- Healthy Cookie Dough Bites
- Easy Energy Bar Recipe
