Description
These Monster Cookie Protein Balls are a delicious and nutritious no-bake snack combining natural peanut butter, honey, protein powder, oats, and a mix of coconut, seeds, and chocolate for a perfect energy boost. Ready in just 10 minutes, they are ideal for a quick snack or post-workout treat, with customizable add-ins to suit your taste and texture preference.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder (add 1-2 tbsp more if needed for desired consistency)
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/3 cup shredded coconut
- 1 tablespoon ground flax seed (optional)
- 2 teaspoons chia seeds (optional)
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
Topping
- 1/4 cup M&M chocolate candies
Instructions
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the natural peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the vanilla protein powder, rolled oats, shredded coconut, ground flax seed, chia seeds, and mini chocolate chips into the bowl. Mix all ingredients together until well combined. If the mixture seems too wet or sticky, add an additional tablespoon or two of protein powder or oats to achieve a workable consistency.
- Form Balls: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the mixture and roll it into bite-sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, ensuring they hold their shape well.
- Add Toppings and Chill: Place the formed protein balls on a baking sheet or plate. Gently press a few M&M chocolate candies onto the top of each ball for extra color and flavor. Refrigerate the balls for at least 30 minutes to set and firm up.
- Storage and Serving: Once chilled, store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze them for several months. When ready to eat after freezing, let them thaw at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly before consuming.
Notes
- You can adjust the protein powder amount to suit your protein needs and texture preference.
- Optional flaxseed and chia seeds boost fiber and omega-3 content.
- Mini chocolate chips and M&M candies add sweetness and visual appeal but can be omitted for a less sugary version.
- Make sure to refrigerate the protein balls to help them firm up and extend shelf life.
- These no-bake snacks are perfect for meal prep and grab-and-go energy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
