High Protein Energy Balls
- Megan Tomlin
- Mar 7
- 3 min read
Are you looking for a quick and nutritious snack that keeps your energy levels high and satisfies your sweet tooth at the same time? Look no further! Today, I’m sharing my favorite recipe for high protein energy balls. These delightful bites are perfect for pre- or post-workout fuel, a midday boost, or even a healthy treat after dinner.
Get ready to gather some chocolate, nut butter, oats, and protein, and let’s start crafting!
Why Choose Energy Balls?
Energy balls are more than just a tasty treat; they are incredibly versatile! You can customize each batch to suit your taste buds. Packed with nutrient-dense ingredients, these bites provide sustained energy that lasts throughout your day. With a protein content averaging around 10 grams per serving, they are fantastic for muscle recovery and can help you meet your recommended daily protein intake. In fact, athletes can benefit significantly from including more protein in their diets, aiming for approximately 1.2 to 2.0 grams per kilogram of body weight, depending on their activity level.
Plus, they’re super easy to make! In under 20 minutes, you can prepare a batch that lasts all week long.
Gather Your Ingredients
To whip up these mouthwatering energy balls, you’ll need:
1 cup of rolled oats: Acting as the base, oats provide around 4 grams of fiber per serving, offering whole grains that keep you full longer.
1/2 cup of nut butter: Choose almond butter, peanut butter, or any nut butter you love. This ingredient adds healthy fats and roughly 14 grams of protein per 2-tablespoon serving.
1/2 cup of honey or maple syrup: These natural sweeteners help bind the mixture while delivering a delightful flavor.
1/2 cup of protein powder: Go for your favorite flavor. Incorporating protein powder can increase the protein content by about 20 grams per serving, which is a significant boost.
1/4 cup of chocolate chips or dried fruit: These are optional, but adding them can elevate the sweetness and provide additional texture.
A pinch of salt: This enhances all the flavors wonderfully.
Let’s Make Some Energy Balls!
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to combine everything until you achieve a sticky but manageable mixture.
Form the Balls: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into balls. Keep them bite-sized for easy snacking.
Chill: Place the formed energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle.
Store & Enjoy: After chilling, store the energy balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can grab them whenever you need a nutritious pick-me-up.
Nutritional Benefits
These high protein energy balls are not just protein-rich; they also deliver essential nutrients from oats, nuts, and seeds. Each ball is an excellent source of fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants. A single energy ball can contain around 200 calories, making it a well-rounded snack choice for anyone looking to eat healthier.
The blend of fiber and protein in these energy balls makes them particularly fulfilling. Studies show that meals high in protein can reduce hunger hormones by 60%, leading to lower calorie intake later in the day.
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