Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Oh honey, no - steel-cut oats will stay way too hard! Rolled oats give that perfect chewy texture. If you're out, quick oats work in a pinch, but your no-bake energy bites will be slightly softer. Texture matters here!

How do I make these nut-free for school snacks?

Sunflower seed butter is your new best friend! It mimics the texture of peanut butter perfectly and still helps the balls hold together. Just make sure to get the no-stir kind unless you enjoy a biceps workout mixing it first.

Can I skip the protein powder?

You can... but they won't be protein balls anymore! For a lighter version, sub with almond flour or extra oats. They'll still taste great, just won't give you that gym snack staying power. My compromise? Use half the protein powder.

Why are my balls too sticky/crumbly?

Weather affects these little guys more than you'd think! Too sticky? Add oats 1 tbsp at a time. Too dry? A teaspoon of milk or extra nut butter helps. Play with it - baking is science, but snack balls are art.

5-Ingredient Oatmeal Protein Balls

No-Bake Oatmeal Protein Balls

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Quick and easy energy bites packed with protein, oats, and nut butter. Perfect for meal prep and on-the-go snacks.

Author: Sophia Collins
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 0 min
Total Time: 40 min
Yield: 12 balls 1x
Category: Snack
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or sunflower)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup protein powder (whey or plant-based)
2 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)

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Instructions

Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
Roll into 1-inch balls using your hands.
Place on a tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

Use a cookie scoop for even portioning.
For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter.
Add cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 ball
Calories: 120
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 25mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/oatmeal-protein-balls-recipe-easy-no-bake-snack/