Peanut Butter Banana Protein Balls are an easy way to turn a ripe banana into a batch of homemade snacks. No baking required, and you only need 15 minutes to prepare them before they go into the refrigerator.
These no-bake protein balls have a soft, chewy texture with plenty of peanut butter flavor. The banana and honey provide sweetness without making them taste like dessert. A little cinnamon is a nice addition, especially with the vanilla protein powder.
You’ll need two mixing bowls and a baking sheet. A cookie scoop is helpful for keeping the protein balls close to the same size, although you can measure the mixture with a tablespoon.
Each batch makes approximately 18 protein balls, so there’s enough to keep in the refrigerator for several days. They’re convenient for afternoon snacks, packing in a lunch, or having something ready when you don’t have time to prepare food.
These peanut butter banana oatmeal protein balls are also easy to adjust depending on what you have available. You can change the nut butter or use a different protein powder without changing much about the preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Banana Protein Balls Recipe
No Oven Required
These are completely no-bake. Mix everything, roll the balls, and refrigerate until firm. You don’t need to turn on the oven or spend time cooking.
A Good Use for Ripe Bananas
A ripe banana is easier to mash and gives the mixture natural sweetness. You don’t need an overly brown banana, but one with a few brown spots is a good choice.
Easy to Keep on Hand
You can make all 18 protein balls at once and store them in the refrigerator. Having a container ready makes afternoon snacks much more convenient.
Soft and Chewy Texture
The oats give these some chew without making them hard or crunchy. They stay fairly soft after refrigeration, especially when made with creamy peanut butter.
Five Grams of Protein Per Ball
Each protein ball provides approximately 5 grams of protein. The peanut butter and vanilla protein powder make these a more substantial snack than a plain oatmeal bite.
Ingredient Substitutions
Creamy Natural Peanut Butter
Almond butter or cashew butter can replace peanut butter in equal amounts. Choose a creamy variety that isn’t too runny. Sunflower seed butter is another option if you need to avoid peanuts and tree nuts.
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats
Quick oats can replace old-fashioned oats. They absorb moisture a little differently and create a softer, less chewy texture. Avoid steel-cut oats because they won’t soften enough in this no-bake recipe.
Vanilla Protein Powder
Unflavored protein powder can work if you prefer less vanilla flavor. Chocolate protein powder is another option and gives the balls a chocolate peanut butter banana flavor. Different powders absorb different amounts of moisture, so you may need to adjust the consistency.
Ground Flaxseed
Chia seeds can replace ground flaxseed in equal amounts. The texture will be slightly different, particularly if you use whole chia seeds.
Honey
Pure maple syrup can replace honey in the same amount. It has a thinner consistency, so the mixture may be slightly softer. Maple syrup is also an option if you prefer not to use honey.
Ground Cinnamon
Pumpkin pie spice can replace cinnamon for a warmer, more spiced flavor. Use the same amount.
Vanilla Extract
You can omit the vanilla extract if your protein powder already has a strong vanilla flavor.
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Peanut Butter Banana Protein Balls
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 medium ripe banana
- ¾ cup creamy natural peanut butter
- 1½ cups old fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup vanilla protein powder
- 2 tablespoon ground flaxseed
- 2 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the banana in a medium mixing bowl and mash with a fork until smooth.
- Add the peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract to the mashed banana and stir until combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together the rolled oats, protein powder, ground flaxseed, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the banana mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until a thick, slightly sticky dough forms.
- If the mixture is too soft to roll, refrigerate for 10 minutes.
- Scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll between your palms to form a ball.
- Place the ball on the prepared baking sheet and repeat with the remaining mixture to make approximately 18 balls.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until firm.
Notes
Tips and Tricks
Use a Well-Stirred Peanut Butter – Natural peanut butter can separate in the jar. Stir it thoroughly before measuring so the mixture doesn’t become too oily or dry. Adjust the Consistency – If the mixture seems too dry or crumbly, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until it holds together. If it’s too sticky, add a small amount of rolled oats. Choose Your Protein Powder Carefully – Whey and plant-based protein powders can absorb moisture differently. A powder that works well in shakes may make these protein balls softer or firmer than expected. Keep the Sizes Consistent – Use a cookie scoop or measuring spoon to portion the mixture. Similar-sized balls will have more consistent nutrition per serving.Storing
Refrigerator – Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep them chilled until ready to serve. Freezer – Place the protein balls in a freezer-safe container or bag with parchment paper between layers. Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.Nutrition
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