Almond Butter Protein Balls | Kara Lydon

Almond butter protein balls are a delicious, quick and healthy snack that can be meal prepped in less than 20 minutes. Easy to grab-n-go, these protein bites are packed with almond butter, oats, flaxseed and maple syrup.Between work, kids, appointments, errands and more, it can be hard to find time to make snacks that are nourishing and delicious!

This is why I love these make-ahead energy balls. They’re packed with protein and are an easy grab-and-go way to get quick and sustaining energy.

These protein balls can be customized to your liking, and even paired with a side like Greek yogurt and fruit for a simple balanced breakfast.

They freeze beautifully, are quick to throw together, and packed full of protein and healthy fats to keep you satisfied (they’re also kid-approved because who doesn’t love nut butter?!).

Add this sweet, nutty, and a delicious twist on the classic protein ball into the snack rotation and stay energized through your busy week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Notes on Ingredients

old-fashioned rolled oats: opt for certified gluten free oats to make recipe gluten free

ground flaxseeds: make sure to buy ground flax, not whole. Whole wouldn’t taste as good and you’d have to chew them very well to get the omega-3 benefits! Packed with fiber, flaxseed may help support digestion and lower total blood cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels.

almond butter: can be subbed for peanut butter or any nut butter of choice. use sunflower butter if you need a nut-free alternative.

chia seeds: provides fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.

maple syrup: adds sweetness; can substitute with honey if desired

dried cranberries: adds a chewy texture and sweetness! can substitute with raisins or any other dried fruit

shredded coconut: provides a source of fat and tropical flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need (affiliate link – if you make a purchase I receive a small commission)

Mixing Bowl 

How to Make Almond Butter Protein Balls

Mix ingredients. In a large bowl combine oats, flaxseed, almond butter, maple syrup, dried cranberries, chia seeds, coconut, and salt until combined (mixture will be slightly sticky but will harden in the refrigerator).
Refrigerate mixture. Cover bowl and store in the fridge for 10-15 minutes (this helps harden the mixture to form balls more easily).
Form mixture into balls. Using a packed cookie scoop (or 1 generous tablespoon), form mixture into balls using your hands.

Store balls in the fridge. Store in an airtight container for up to 6 days or freeze and thaw at room temperature the day before.

Expert Tips:

Make a double or triple batch to store in the freezer and have snacks on hand for weeks!
If mixture is too sticky, add more flaxseed (1 tablespoon at a time). If mixture is too dry, add more almond butter or maple syrup, or even water (1 tablespoon at a time).
If you want your protein balls to be sweeter, you could substitute dried fruit for chocolate chips.
You could skip the refrigerator step if you don’t have the time but the balls will be harder to form.

Substitution Ideas:

raisins
hemp seeds
sunflower seed butter
peanut butter
dried blueberries
chocolate chips
honey
agave syrup
orange zest
cinnamon 
white chocolate chips
dates
pumpkin seeds
cocoa powder
sunflower seeds
shredded carrot
lemon zest 

Recipe FAQs

My balls are crumbly- what should I do?

Consider adding more almond butter or maple syrup to help the mixture hold together!

Can I leave out the flax seeds?

Yes! One of the best things about protein balls is that they are totally customizable to your preferences. If you don’t have flax seeds on hand, you can add more oats to help balance out the wet ingredients. You could also try substituting with hemp seeds.

Can I use peanut butter?

Absolutely! The almond butter makes these more allergy-friendly but it can be subbed for peanut butter. The ratio will remain the same!

What health benefits can be found in almond butter protein bites?

These energy balls are packed with protein, fiber, and nourishing fats thanks to the almond butter, flaxseed, chia seeds, oats, and coconut.

Storage and Preparation

Almond Butter Protein Bite leftovers can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 6 days or stored in the freezer for up to 3 months and thawed at room temperature the day before.

Recipes That Pair Well

For a balanced breakfast, I recommend pairing with a delicious smoothie:

Vegan Energy Boosting Smoothie

Tropical Green Smoothie

Pomegranate Smoothie

For more energy bite inspiration, check out my other recipes below!

Almond Butter and Jelly Energy Balls

Chocolate Peanut Butter Hemp Heart Bites

If you like this recipe, please be sure to comment and give it a 5 star rating below. If you make it, share it on Instagram and tag me @karalydonrd and I’ll re-share it with my followers! If you want to save this recipe for later, be sure to pin it on Pinterest!

Ready to enjoy eating foods like this without the guilt? Download my free guide: Rediscover the Joy in Eating: How to Stop Stressing About Food + Enjoy Every Meal.

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