Base Protein Ball Recipe (with optional add ins)

With lots of young children I am always looking for healthy snack recipes that are also quick and easy to make. Sometimes when life is so fast paced, maintaining a healthy diet often takes a backseat and too many prepackaged foods make their way into our diets. Ensuring we get the right nutrients is so important for us though, and a bag of chips just isn't going to cut it. Enter: Power packed protein balls, the perfect solution for this busy mom wanting a nutritious AND convenient snack. And bonus, my husband like them too.

These Protein balls are small, portable, and bursting with energy-boosting ingredients. Whether you need a pre-workout boost, a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, a guilt-free dessert, or a quick snack for the kids like me, these protein-packed treats have you covered. Plus, they're incredibly simple to make and can be customized to suit your needs. Just start with the base protein ball recipe and then pick your optional (and customizable) add ins.

Let's dive into a simple yet scrumptious recipe for power-packed protein balls:

Base Protein Ball Recipe

• 3 cups oats

• 1/2 cup protein powder

• 1 cup peanut butter

• 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey

Optional Add ins

• 1/4 cup flax seed

• 1/4 cup chia seed

• 1/4 cup hemp seed hearts

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

• 1/4 cup chopped pecans

Instructions:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, protein powder, chia seeds, flaxseed meal, hemp seeds, chocolate chips, pecans and even a pinch of salt. Mix well until evenly distributed.

2. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and if you want some vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until the mixture starts to come together. You may need to use your hands to fully incorporate the ingredients.

3. Mix and Form Balls: Once the ingredients are well combined, start rolling the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture is too dry, add a little more peanut butter or honey to help bind everything together.

4. Chill and Set: Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at 10-15 minutes to allow them to firm up.

5. Enjoy: Once chilled, your power-packed protein balls are ready to eat! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Customization Tips:

• Nut-Free Option: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini for a nut-free alternative.

• Sweet Tooth: Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or maple syrup to suit your taste.

• Extra Boost: Experiment with different add-ins such as dried fruit, shredded coconut, nuts, or seeds for added texture and flavor.

• Vegan Variation: Use plant-based protein powder and maple syrup instead of honey to make vegan-friendly protein balls.
  

This base protein ball recipe serves as an easy starting point for these yummy snacks. If you want, just serve the base recipe and its sure to be tasty or add in some or all of the mix ins for an even more delicious and power packed treat. Whether you crave sweetness, crunch, or a burst of flavor, the options are endless.