Protein Balls with Sunflower Butter

Name: Protein Balls with Sunflower Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 balls
Ingredients: 1 cup sunflower butter; 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup protein powder; 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional); 1/4 cup chopped nuts or seeds (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

These protein balls with sunflower butter are a delicious and nutritious snack perfect for any time of the day.

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-25T16:07:05.090Z

Protein balls are a fantastic way to fuel your body on the go. Made with nutritious ingredients like sunflower butter, they are not only tasty but also packed with protein.

        Why You'll Love These Protein Balls
        Nutritious snack that keeps you full longer
Rich in protein and healthy fats
Easy to make and customize with your favorite ingredients

      

The Benefits of Sunflower Butter

Sunflower butter is a fantastic alternative to traditional nut butters, especially for those with nut allergies. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, it provides a rich source of Vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium. This nutrient-dense spread not only adds creaminess to your protein balls but also enhances their overall health benefits. With its naturally sweet flavor, sunflower butter can easily satisfy your cravings without the need for added sugars.

In addition to being nutritious, sunflower butter is also high in healthy fats, particularly polyunsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health. Incorporating sunflower butter into your diet can help to maintain healthy cholesterol levels and provide sustained energy throughout the day. This makes these protein balls an excellent choice for a pre- or post-workout snack.

Customizable and Versatile

One of the best aspects of these protein balls is their versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary requirements. Whether you prefer crunchy textures or want to boost the nutritional value, the optional ingredients like chocolate chips and chopped nuts or seeds allow for endless combinations. Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding spices like cinnamon or vanilla extract to elevate the taste.

Additionally, you can swap the protein powder for a plant-based option to cater to vegan diets or choose flavored protein powders for an extra kick. The possibilities are truly limitless, making these protein balls a great way to use up leftover ingredients in your pantry. They can easily become your go-to snack, no matter your dietary needs.

Perfect for Meal Prep

These protein balls are not only quick to prepare but also an excellent choice for meal prep. You can whip up a batch at the beginning of the week and have a nutritious snack ready to grab when you're on the go. Their compact size makes them easy to pack in lunchboxes or bags, ensuring you always have a healthy option available.

Storing protein balls is simple as well. Just keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage. This way, you can enjoy a healthy, homemade snack anytime you need a boost. Plus, knowing exactly what's in your snacks gives you peace of mind about your nutrition.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup sunflower butter
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup protein powder
1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
1/4 cup chopped nuts or seeds (optional)

Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

Instructions

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine sunflower butter, rolled oats, honey, and protein powder. Stir until well mixed.

Add Extras

If desired, fold in chocolate chips and chopped nuts or seeds for added texture and flavor.

Form Balls

Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter.

Chill and Serve

Place the protein balls on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your protein balls as a quick snack or post-workout treat!

Storing Your Protein Balls

To keep your protein balls fresh and tasty, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for about a week, making them an ideal snack for busy weekdays. If you want to enjoy them longer, consider freezing them. Just place the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen protein ball, simply take it out and let it thaw at room temperature for about 15 minutes before eating. This way, you can always have a healthy treat on hand, ready to provide a quick source of energy when you need it most.

Health Benefits of Protein Snacks

Snacking on protein-rich foods is beneficial for maintaining energy levels and supporting muscle recovery, especially after workouts. Protein helps to repair and build muscle tissues, making these protein balls an excellent post-exercise snack. Additionally, protein can help you feel fuller for longer, reducing the likelihood of unhealthy snacking later on.

Incorporating protein snacks into your diet can also aid in weight management. As they help to stabilize blood sugar levels, they can prevent those pesky cravings that lead to overeating. Enjoying a protein ball between meals can contribute to a balanced and satisfying diet.

Serving Suggestions

These protein balls are delicious on their own, but you can also elevate the experience by pairing them with fresh fruits or yogurt. For a satisfying breakfast, try crumbling a few protein balls over Greek yogurt topped with berries. This combination not only enhances the flavor but also packs a nutritional punch, perfect for starting your day right.

For a fun twist, consider using these protein balls as a topping for smoothie bowls or oatmeal. Their chewy texture and rich flavor will complement your favorite breakfast dishes beautifully. Whatever way you choose to enjoy them, these protein balls will quickly become a staple in your healthy eating routine.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute sunflower butter with another nut butter?

Yes, you can use almond butter, peanut butter, or any other nut butter of your choice.

→ How do I store these protein balls?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these protein balls?

Absolutely! They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge before enjoying.

→ What can I use instead of honey?

You can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or any other liquid sweetener you prefer.