Protein Balls with Cocoa Powder

Name: Protein Balls with Cocoa Powder
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 balls
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup natural peanut butter; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup chocolate protein powder; 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips; 1 tsp vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Delicious and nutritious protein balls with a rich cocoa flavor, perfect for a quick snack or post-workout boost.

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2025-12-24T13:54:37.733Z

These protein balls are a fantastic way to satisfy your sweet tooth while fueling your body with essential nutrients. The combination of cocoa powder and nut butter creates a rich flavor that will keep you coming back for more!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with protein-packed ingredients
Easy to make and no baking required
Perfect for on-the-go snacking or meal prep

      

The Benefits of Protein Balls

Protein balls are an excellent way to incorporate nutrition into your daily routine. They provide a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, making them a great option for anyone looking to fuel their body. The ingredients in these protein balls, such as peanut butter and oats, offer sustained energy, while the cocoa powder adds a delicious chocolatey twist that satisfies sweet cravings without the guilt.

In addition to being packed with nutrients, these protein balls are incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them by adding your favorite mix-ins, like nuts, seeds, or dried fruits, tailoring them to your personal taste and nutritional needs. This adaptability makes protein balls an ideal choice for anyone, whether you're an athlete in training or simply looking for a healthier snack option.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the biggest advantages of making protein balls is their convenience for meal prep. You can whip up a large batch in no time, and they store well in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for longer. This means you can have a healthy snack ready to go whenever you need it, whether at home, work, or on the go.

To make it even easier, consider portioning the protein balls into individual servings. This way, you can grab a ball or two as you head out the door, ensuring you always have a nutritious option available. Plus, having these tasty snacks on hand can help you resist the temptation of less healthy choices.

A Family-Friendly Snack

These protein balls are not only good for you, but they're also a hit with kids and adults alike! The rich chocolate flavor, combined with the fun of rolling the balls, makes for an enjoyable cooking experience for the whole family. Get your kids involved in the kitchen by letting them help mix the ingredients and shape the balls—they’ll love it!

Adding protein balls to your family’s snack rotation can help promote healthier eating habits. Instead of reaching for sugary snacks or processed treats, everyone can enjoy these nutritious bites. Plus, with their delicious taste, you might find that even the pickiest eaters will be asking for more!

Ingredients

For the Protein Balls

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup natural peanut butter
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup chocolate protein powder
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
1 tsp vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl until well combined.

Instructions

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, add rolled oats, peanut butter, honey, cocoa powder, protein powder, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined.

Form the Balls

Using your hands, scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used up.

Chill and Serve

Place the protein balls on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Enjoy as a snack or post-workout treat!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Storage Tips

To keep your protein balls fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week when properly stored. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Just place the protein balls in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. This way, you can enjoy a quick snack anytime!

When ready to eat, simply take out the number of protein balls you desire and let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes, or enjoy them straight from the freezer for a cool treat. This flexibility makes them perfect for any time of day.

Nutritional Information

Each protein ball is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. With a combination of oats, peanut butter, and protein powder, you can expect a good balance of macronutrients. On average, one protein ball contains around 100 calories, 6 grams of protein, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying snack that can help support your fitness goals.

These protein balls are also a great source of dietary fiber, thanks to the oats and peanut butter. Fiber is essential for digestive health, and it helps to keep you feeling full longer. Enjoy these protein balls as a pre- or post-workout snack, or simply as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients in your protein balls. For instance, you can swap out peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter to change the flavor profile. Additionally, you can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra kick of warmth and flavor.

If you're looking to reduce sugar, substitute the honey or maple syrup with mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce. The possibilities are endless, and with a little creativity, you can make these protein balls your own while still keeping them nutritious and tasty.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Yes, almond butter or cashew butter work well as alternatives.

→ How long do these protein balls last?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add seeds, dried fruits, or spices to customize the recipe.

→ Are these vegan-friendly?

Yes, if you use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your protein powder is plant-based.