Quick, easy and packed with protein, complex carbs, healthy fats and super foods, these no-bake Shakeology protein balls have become a staple in our home.
What I love most about the recipe I’m about to share with you is that it is extremely easy to change up the ingredients and make it your own. These protein balls makes a great snack to keep on hand for a go-to healthy snacks or an easy dessert the whole family can enjoy.
Mix up up four to five ingredients, roll into balls, place in the fridge, and enjoy whenever you like. It’s really that simple!
Health Benefits of Nut Butters
While you might still think you should stay away from nut butters when eating healthy because of their high fat content, you have to remember most of the fat found in nuts is unsaturated. Unsaturated fat is healthier for you than saturated fats because they help reduce the risk of high levels of bad cholesterol in the blood.
Nuts may also be helpful in stabilizing your blood sugar and insulin levels, as well as keeping the lining of you blood vessels pliable, preventing heart problems connected with diabetes and hardening of blood vessels. They are truly heart healthy, which is something I love as someone who has a family history complete with everything from strokes to high blood pressure to diabetes.
Nut butters are also high in protein and fiber, as well as plenty of other important nutrients like magnesium, Vitamins E and B6, copper, folic acid, niacin, potassium, zinc. They are also chock full antioxidants and minerals that work together to protect your cells.
Lots of Ingredient & Substitution Ideas
This protein ball recipe uses all natural ingredients and can literally be made in a few minutes. If you’re craving something sweet or just really want a peanut butter cup, these are great to be able to grab. I always like to keep a supply in the fridge or freezer. And the best part is that these Shakeology protein balls are the perfect complement to any healthy diet and can easily be made to suit your preferences.
Natural Sweeteners:
In my recipe below, I use maple syrup. However there are plenty of other natural sweeteners that are better for your health than white sugar. These sweeteners are both low in calories and fructose, but are very sweet to the taste.
Here are a few sweetener ideas:
- Maple syrup
- Honey
- Molasses
- Prunes (stew and puree them in a blender for a smoother, better texture)
Nut Butters:
You can use any of your favorite nut butters in this recipe like almond butter or cashew butter. And if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, you could also try something like sunflower seed butter.
Here are few suggestions:
- Peanut butter
- Almond butter
- Cashew butter (closest to pb taste & texture)
- Sunflower seed butter
Protein Powders:
Here’s a big secret: you don’t need to add protein powder to make this delicious snack. But if you’re looking to get a little more protein in your diet, it is definitely a no-fuss way to bump up your daily intake.
Here are few protein powders I like:
- Shakeology
- Vega One
- Optimum Nutrition Whey
Hopefully that gives you some ideas to how versatile this recipe can be and how you can really make it your own. They can even be Vegan-friendly if you opt for Vegan Shakeology or your favorite plant-based protein powder like I do.
Shakeology Protein Ball Recipe
- 1 Cup Nut butter of your choice
- 3/4 Cup Oatmeal (quick cooking or original)
- 1/4 Cup Sweetener of your choice (honey or maple syrup)
- 1 Scoop Shakeology or other protein powder
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients.
Adjust amount of ingredients if necessary or see note.
Using a tablespoon, form 1-inch balls.
Place on parchment paper and store covered in fridge.
Note: Different nut butters and/or protein powders can affect the consistency. If you find your mixture is a little too dry, you can add a tablespoon at a time of almond or coconut milk until the consistency is more workable.
****If you are using Beachbody portion control containers, this recipe uses yellow, blue, orange, and red containers****
Shakeology Protein Ball Conclusion
Since trying this recipe, it’s become a favorite of ours and I honestly have to have some available in my fridge at all times! They’re also great to make if you have kids who like to help out in the kitchen and eat what you eat. What I like to do is make a double batch and leave out the protein entirely for my toddler.
The nut butter always makes it a satisfying treat and can even cure those occasional (or maybe not so occasional!) peanut butter cup cravings when paired with chocolate Shakeology/other chocolate protein and dark chocolate chips. They are pretty filling, too, so don’t be surprised when you only eat one or two!
If you’ve tried these and love them as much as I do or you have more delicious substitution ideas you’ve enjoyed, leave a comment below!
Are oats not considered a yellow container for this? Love the recipe and trying it tomorrow!
Hope you enjoy them! Yes, oats are a yellow.