Beat the Snack Attack with Homemade Protein Balls!
When hunger strikes mid-day or after a tough workout, it’s tempting to grab processed snacks loaded with sugar and unhealthy fats. But there’s a better option—homemade protein balls! These bite-sized snacks are packed with protein and natural nutrients, making them a powerhouse of energy and nourishment.
Why Snack Smart?
- Sustained Energy: Protein and healthy fats keep your energy levels stable, avoiding the sugar crash from processed snacks.
- Nutrient Boost: Ingredients like oats, pumpkin seeds and flaxseed, and nut butter provide fibre, omega-3s, and essential vitamins to fuel your day.
- Workout Recovery: High-protein snacks help repair and rebuild muscles after training, aiding recovery and performance.
- Convenience: Make a batch ahead of time for grab-and-go nutrition that fits into your busy schedule.
Recipe Inspiration:
Try combining oats, protein powder, pumpkin seeds, flaxseed, cinnamon, nut butter, and chocolate chips or raisins with some milk of choice for a delicious, guilt-free snack. Roll into bite-sized balls and refrigerate for a quick, satisfying treat.
Ditch the processed foods and embrace homemade snacks that support your health, training, and goals. These protein balls prove that eating smart doesn’t have to be boring or complicated!
Ingredients
150g organic oats
50g chocolate protein powder*
1tbsp ground flaxseed
dash cinnamon
1tbsp runny honey
1tsp vanilla extract
50g peanut butter
50g crushed pumpkin seeds
25g raisins (cut up)
6 tbsp whole milk or mix of milk and water
Method:
Step 1: Mix Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients: oats, protein powder, crushed pumpkin seeds, raisins, flaxseed, and cinnamon.
- Add the wet ingredients: honey, vanilla extract, nut butter, and milk. Mix thoroughly.
Step 2: Adjust for Flavor or Texture
- For a different flavour, use almond butter instead of your usual nut butter, and increase the cinnamon for a warming spice kick or add in chocolate chips instead of raisins.
- For a smoother texture, partially blend the oats in a food processor. If the mixture becomes too thick, add an extra tablespoon of milk or water.
Step 3: Roll into Balls
- Stir the mixture until evenly combined. With damp hands, roll into 15 equal-sized balls.
- Place the balls on a plate and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes until firm.
Step 4: Serve and Store
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Nutrition info (per ball)
Calories – 104kcal
Protein – 5g
Fat – 4g of which sat – 0.9g
Carbs – 11g of which sugar – 2g
Magnesium (great for recovery) – 29% of daily recommended intake
Also high in B Vitamins needed for immune health.