These no-bake protein balls are sweet, chewy, and packed with goodness!
Okay, these cranberry white chocolate protein balls are ridiculously good.
They’re sweet, a little tangy, full of chewy texture—and ready in just 10 minutes!
No baking. No fuss. Just one bowl, some healthy ingredients, and boom—you’ve got the perfect snack to grab when you’re hungry or need a little pick-me-up.
I make these all the time when I want something sweet, but I’m trying to stick to better habits. They feel like dessert, but they’re full of protein and fiber, so they actually fill you up. Win-win.
🥣 What You’ll Need
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (creamy)
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
❤️ Why I Love This Recipe
I started making these when I wanted something I could prep ahead and grab during busy days. Now I keep them in the fridge 24/7. Here’s why I love them:
- No baking! Just mix, roll, and you’re done.
- Naturally sweet. Honey + cranberries = the perfect combo.
- Protein-packed. They actually satisfy your hunger.
- Perfect for meal prep. One batch lasts all week (if you don’t eat them all at once).
🍽️ Makes 12 balls
⏱️ Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 No cooking required
⚖️ Exact Macros (Per Ball)
Approximate values
- Calories: 140
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 9g
🔬 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Oats provide structure and fiber to hold it all together.
- Peanut butter and honey act as the “glue”—natural binders that also bring richness and sweetness.
- Protein powder adds staying power so you’re not hungry in 20 minutes.
- Cranberries + white chocolate give you that sweet and tangy combo that keeps you coming back.
🗓️ Meal Plan Ideas
- Quick breakfast on the way out the door
- Afternoon snack when you hit that energy dip
- Post-workout snack to help refuel
- Desk drawer treat when the sugar cravings hit at work
😬 Common Mistakes
- Too dry? You might’ve added too much protein powder or oats. Just drizzle in a little extra honey or peanut butter.
- Too sticky to roll? Chill the mix for 10–15 minutes in the fridge before rolling.
- Not mixing well? Use a rubber spatula and fold slowly—it helps everything combine without getting messy.
🍴 What to Serve With
- A cup of coffee or iced matcha
- Sliced apples or bananas for a full mini meal
- Yogurt bowl for a protein-packed breakfast
🙋 FAQ
Q: Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
A: Yep! Any nut butter works here—just make sure it’s the creamy kind.
Q: What kind of protein powder should I use?
A: Vanilla whey or plant-based protein both work. Just avoid unflavored unless you like a more neutral taste.
Q: How long do these last?
A: Up to a week in the fridge in a sealed container, or freeze for up to 3 months!
🧠 Pro Tips
- Use mini chocolate chips so they mix more evenly.
- Chop your dried cranberries if they’re too large.
- Wet your hands slightly before rolling to keep things from sticking.
- Chill the mix first if it feels too soft or warm.
- Double the batch and freeze half!
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or cookie scoop
- Airtight container for storage
🔄 Substitutions & Variations
- Use almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor.
- Sub maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option.
- Add chia seeds or flaxseed for extra fiber.
- Swap cranberries for chopped dates or raisins.
- Try dark chocolate chips instead of white.
⏳ Make Ahead Tips
- Make a double batch and freeze half.
- Roll into balls and store in the fridge up to 7 days.
- Mix everything ahead of time and roll later if you’re short on time.
👨🍳 How to Make Cranberry White Chocolate Protein Balls
Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a big mixing bowl, add 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 1/3 cup honey, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients
Stir in 1 cup rolled oats, 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
Step 3: Fold in the Good Stuff
Add 1/3 cup dried cranberries (chopped if large) and 1/4 cup white chocolate chips. Stir gently to combine.
Step 4: Chill (Optional but helpful)
If the mix feels too sticky, place the bowl in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to firm up.
Step 5: Roll into Balls
Use your hands or a cookie scoop to roll into 12 balls.
🧊 Leftovers and Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. Keeps for 3 months. Thaw in fridge overnight.
✨ Wrap-Up
These cranberry white chocolate protein balls are so easy and satisfying—you’ll wonder how you ever snacked without them. Give them a try and let me know how they turned out! Got questions? Leave a comment below—I love hearing how your batch goes!