No bake. No fuss. Just yummy little bites of joy.
These are a total lifesaver.
Whether you’re racing out the door, need a 3pm pick-me-up, or just want a little something sweet without going full cookie—these Cookie Dough Protein Balls have you covered.
They’re chewy, a little nutty, sweet like cookie dough, and loaded with feel-good ingredients.
I started making these when I was trying to eat more protein but still wanted something fun. Honestly? They taste like dessert but act like a snack.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup natural creamy peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt
Why I Love This Recipe
These little bites became a fridge staple the second I realized how easy they are. No baking. No mess. Just mix, roll, chill. Done.
- Tastes like cookie dough (yes, really!)
- You don’t need a mixer or fancy tools
- Packed with protein and fiber
- Freezer-friendly and portable
Makes: 12 balls
Time: 10 minutes prep, 15 minutes chill
🧠 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Oats give the dough a chewy texture and hold everything together without baking.
- Protein powder absorbs moisture and helps firm things up.
- Nut butter + honey = your sticky base to bind it all.
- Mini chips stay suspended in the mixture better than regular-sized ones!
Meal Plan Ideas
- Pair with a smoothie for a quick breakfast
- Pack two for an afternoon snack
- Serve with Greek yogurt and fruit for a protein-packed mini meal
Pro Tips
- Use natural peanut butter – the kind with just peanuts and salt. It mixes better and keeps the texture smooth.
- Chill before rolling if the dough feels sticky. Even 5–10 minutes helps.
- Don’t overdo the protein powder or they’ll get dry and chalky.
- Mini chips > regular chips – better distribution in each bite.
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized balls (less mess, too!).
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Silicone spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Cookie scoop or spoon
- Airtight container for storing
Substitutions & Variations
- Nut-free? Use sunflower seed butter.
- No honey? Try maple syrup or agave.
- Vegan? Use plant-based protein and maple syrup.
- Add-ins? Chia seeds, coconut flakes, or chopped nuts.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can make these up to 1 week ahead and store them in the fridge. Or freeze for up to 2 months—just thaw before eating.
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the wet ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Mix until smooth.
Step 2: Add the dry ingredients
Add to the same bowl:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
- Pinch of sea salt
Mix until fully combined.
Step 3: Fold in the chocolate chips
Add:
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
Fold them gently into the mixture.
Step 4: Chill the dough
Pop the bowl in the fridge for about 15 minutes to firm up.
Step 5: Roll into balls
Use a cookie scoop or spoon to roll the dough into 12 balls. Place on a plate or into a storage container.
Tips for Leftovers & Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Good for 2 months.
- To eat: Let sit at room temp for a few minutes if frozen.
Common Mistakes
- Using dry protein powder: If your powder is super dry, reduce the amount slightly or add an extra drizzle of honey.
- Too sticky to roll? Chill first—don’t add more oats unless you’ve tried chilling.
- Using dry nut butter: This can make the mix crumbly. Go for drippy, natural versions.
What to Serve With
- A smoothie (banana + almond milk = perfect)
- Coffee or cold brew
- Sliced apples or strawberries
- A small bowl of Greek yogurt
FAQ
Can I make these without protein powder?
Yes! Just replace with 1/4 cup more oats and a little extra nut butter if needed.
Are they gluten-free?
Yes—just use certified gluten-free oats.
Can I double the batch?
Absolutely. Just use a big enough bowl.
Do I have to chill the dough?
It helps the balls roll easier and hold their shape better. But if you’re in a rush, it’s not totally necessary.
Final Thoughts
These cookie dough protein balls are the snack I never knew I needed—until I made them once, and now I make them every single week. I hope they make your snack game easier (and yummier) too!
Try them out and leave a comment to tell me how they turned out—or ask any questions. I’m here for it! 🍪💪