Hi👋 I’m MARILYN, a 34-year-old FROM UNITED KINGDOM. Cooking is my passion, and I love sharing delicious, easy-to-follow recipes. Join me on marilynrecipes.com to explore a world of culinary delights, from comforting classics to innovative creations. Let’s make cooking fun and enjoyable for everyone! Cooking is about more than just food — it’s about sharing stories and making memories.
I still remember the first time I made protein balls. I was craving a healthy snack that didn’t taste like cardboard, and I wanted something my kids could enjoy too. I pulled out a few pantry staples, experimented with oats, nut butter, and protein powder, and within minutes, the most soft and chewy protein balls came together. The whole kitchen smelled sweet and nutty, and my kids couldn’t wait to try them. From that day, protein balls have become my go-to snack for busy mornings, post-workout energy, and even as a little pick-me-up during the afternoon slump. This Protein Balls Recipe Soft and Chewy is simple, wholesome, and flexible perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy treat without sacrificing taste.
These soft, chewy protein balls are packed with natural sweetness and protein, but they feel indulgent. They’re not dry, crumbly, or chalky like some protein snacks can be. Each bite is a little burst of nutty, chocolatey, or fruity flavor (depending on your mix-ins), with a chewy texture that just melts in your mouth. I like making a big batch on Sunday and keeping them in the fridge for the week they’re that convenient.
Why I Love Making This Recipe
What makes this recipe special is how versatile and forgiving it is. You don’t need any fancy equipment just a bowl, a spoon, and your hands. You can swap peanut butter for almond butter, add chocolate chips or dried cranberries, sprinkle some cinnamon or cocoa powder and the results are always soft, chewy, and delicious.
I love that I can make these protein balls in under 20 minutes, yet they feel like I spent hours preparing a thoughtful, homemade snack. They’re perfect for my busy mornings, when I want a quick bite with my coffee, or for packing in school lunches or work snacks. My friends always ask me for the recipe because these protein balls are soft, not dry, and packed with flavor. Honestly, it’s my little secret weapon for staying energized throughout the day!
Ingredients & Little Kitchen Secrets
Here’s what you’ll need for soft and chewy protein balls:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- ½ cup vanilla protein powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 2 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional for extra nutrition)
- Pinch of salt
Kitchen Secrets:
- Make sure your nut butter is slightly softened. This makes mixing much easier.
- If the mixture feels dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk (dairy or plant-based) to help it bind.
- For extra chewiness, let the balls rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before eating.
- Don’t over-roll! Gentle pressing is enough to form soft, round balls.
How I Make It, Step by Step
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, and salt.
- Add peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix with a spoon until it starts to come together.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips and chia seeds if using.
- If the mixture feels dry, add 1 tablespoon of milk at a time until it sticks together but remains soft.
- Use your hands to roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Press gently; don’t squeeze too hard.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Pro tip: If you like, roll the protein balls in unsweetened cocoa powder, crushed nuts, or desiccated coconut for a fun variation.
How I Serve It at Home
I usually serve these soft protein balls straight from the fridge with a cup of tea or coffee. Sometimes I pack a couple in a small container for my kids’ school lunch or my own work snack. They’re also perfect for sharing when friends come over for a cozy afternoon.
I love placing them in a small bowl on the kitchen counter they disappear quickly! My favorite way to enjoy them is after a workout or as an afternoon pick-me-up. They’re naturally sweet, satisfying, and guilt-free.
Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead Tips
- Fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before eating.
- Make-Ahead: You can double or triple the batch and keep them ready for busy weeks.
For the softest texture, always chill them for at least 30 minutes before eating. They taste best slightly chilled or at room temperature.
100-Word Short Version
This Protein Balls Recipe Soft and Chewy is quick, easy, and delicious! Made with oats, peanut butter, honey, and protein powder, these little bites are perfect for a healthy snack. Add chocolate chips or seeds for extra flavor and nutrition. Mix everything in a bowl, roll into balls, and chill for 30 minutes. Enjoy them as an on-the-go snack, post-workout treat, or lunchbox addition. Soft, chewy, and naturally sweet, these protein balls are loved by kids and adults alike. Make a batch, store in the fridge, and enjoy a guilt-free, energy-boosting snack all week!
Recipe Card Section
⏱️ Time
Prep: 10 mins
Cook: 0 mins
Chill: 30 mins
Total: 40 mins
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup peanut butter
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- ½ cup vanilla protein powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 2 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional)
- Pinch of salt
👩🍳 Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients in a bowl.
- Add peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract; mix.
- Fold in chocolate chips and seeds.
- Add milk if needed for binding.
- Roll into 1-inch balls, gently pressing.
- Chill for 30 minutes.
📝 Notes
- Use softened nut butter for easy mixing.
- Roll in cocoa, coconut, or crushed nuts for variety.
- Store in fridge for 1 week or freeze up to 2 months.
🍽️ Nutrition (per ball)
Calories: 120 kcal
Protein: 6 g
Carbs: 12 g
Fat: 6 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 6 g
Protein Balls Recipe Soft and Chewy
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 12 balls 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These soft and chewy protein balls are a healthy, delicious snack. Made with oats, peanut butter, honey, and protein powder, they are perfect for on-the-go energy, post-workout refueling, or a guilt-free treat for kids and adults alike. Quick to make, versatile, and naturally sweet, this Protein Balls Recipe Soft and Chewy will be your new favorite snack in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup peanut butter
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- ½ cup vanilla protein powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 2 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients in a bowl.
- Add peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips and seeds.
- Add milk if needed to bind the mixture.
- Roll into 1-inch balls, gently pressing.
- Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use softened nut butter for easy mixing. Roll in cocoa, coconut, or crushed nuts for variety. Store in fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months. Perfect as a healthy snack or post-workout treat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 40
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 6
- Cholesterol: 0
Conclusion
Making these soft and chewy protein balls has been such a joyful experience for me. They remind me that healthy food doesn’t have to be boring, and that simple ingredients can bring so much comfort and happiness. Cooking is about creating memories, sharing with loved ones, and making life a little sweeter one bite at a time. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine. Make a batch, share them, and savor every soft, chewy bite!