Name: No-Bake Bliss: Easy and Nutritious Cookie Dough Protein Balls Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup blended oats (rolled or quick oats); ½ cup protein powder (whey, plant-based, or your choice); ½ cup almond butter (or any nut/seed butter); ¼ cup honey or maple syrup; ¼ cup dark chocolate chips; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of sea salt (optional)

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Introduction

Looking for a quick and nutritious snack that feels like a treat? These no-bake cookie dough protein balls combine rich flavors with wholesome ingredients, making them perfect for fueled afternoons or post-workout bites. Easy to customize and naturally delicious, they’re a snack you’ll want to keep on hand.

The image shows a white bowl filled with round, light brown cookie dough balls dotted with dark chocolate chips. Several cookie dough balls are scattered on a wooden cutting board, with one ball cut in half to reveal its soft, chocolate-chip filled inside. The background surface is a white marble texture, with a soft, pale pink cloth partially visible on the left side. Chocolate chips are scattered around the cutting board, adding more texture to the scene. A woman's hand is reaching from the right side toward the dough balls. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup blended oats (rolled or quick oats)
½ cup protein powder (whey, plant-based, or your choice)
½ cup almond butter (or any nut/seed butter)
¼ cup honey or maple syrup
¼ cup dark chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of sea salt (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the blended oats, protein powder, and a pinch of sea salt. Add the almond butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it forms a sticky dough. If the mixture seems too dry, add a tablespoon of milk (dairy or plant-based) at a time until the dough reaches a soft, pliable consistency.
Step 2: Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips or any mix-ins of your choice, such as chopped nuts or dried fruit. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 3: Scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll it between your palms to form a smooth, bite-sized ball. Repeat until all the dough is used.
Step 4: Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Once set, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to two weeks or in the freezer for up to three months.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free oats and ensure your protein powder is gluten-free.
To make this recipe vegan, swap whey protein for a plant-based powder and replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
For nut-free balls, substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
Try adding cacao nibs, dried fruits, or chopped nuts for different textures and flavors.

Storage

Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before eating.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of several round cookie dough balls piled on a round wooden board, each ball containing dark chocolate chips scattered throughout the golden brown dough. Some dough balls are topped with a few light-colored oats, while one ball on the side is lightly covered with white shredded coconut, contrasting with the smooth texture of the others. The background features small bowls with more chocolate chips and honey, all placed on a white marbled surface, creating a clean and fresh setting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other nut butters besides almond butter?

Yes! Peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter all work well and can be used according to your taste or dietary needs.

What if my dough feels too dry or crumbly?

Add a small amount of milk (dairy or plant-based), one tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together and is easy to shape into balls.