If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and satisfying snack, these Almond Butter Protein Balls are a must-try! They’re the perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and natural sweetness, making them an ideal pre-workout fuel, post-workout recovery snack, or afternoon energy boost.

The best part? No baking required! Just mix, roll, and refrigerate. They’re keto-friendly, gluten-free, dairy-free, and naturally low in carbs, so you can enjoy them guilt-free.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Super Easy – No baking, no complicated steps, just mix & roll!
✅ High-Protein & Low-Carb – A great way to increase protein intake while staying keto.
✅ Meal-Prep Friendly – Make a batch and store for the week.
✅ Naturally Sweetened – No refined sugars or artificial sweeteners.
✅ Endlessly Customizable – Add chocolate chips, coconut, or nuts!

Let’s dive into the details so you can start making these delicious protein-packed energy bites!

What Are Protein Balls?

Protein balls (also known as energy bites) are small, nutrient-dense snacks made with protein powder, nut butters, and healthy fats to provide a quick and satisfying energy boost. Unlike protein bars, these are no-bake and require no artificial binders, making them a more natural and wholesome option.

Since these Almond Butter Protein Balls are keto-friendly, they’re free from high-carb ingredients like oats, honey, or dates, which are common in traditional energy balls. Instead, we use almond flour, protein powder, and almond butter to create a low-carb, deliciously chewy snack that keeps you full and energized.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe makes 12-15 protein balls, depending on the size.

Main Ingredients:

🥜 ½ cup creamy almond butter (unsweetened, no added sugar) – Provides healthy fats and helps bind everything together.
💪 ⅓ cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored) – The key ingredient for a protein boost.
🌰 ¼ cup almond flour – Keeps the balls firm while maintaining a low-carb profile.
🍯 2 tbsp sugar-free sweetener (monk fruit, stevia, or erythritol) – Adds a touch of natural sweetness.
🥥 2 tbsp shredded coconut (unsweetened) – For added texture and flavor. (optional)
🛢️ 1 tbsp coconut oil (melted) – Helps everything bind together and adds a smooth texture.
🍫 2 tbsp sugar-free chocolate chips – For a little extra indulgence. (optional)
🧂 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
🧂 Pinch of sea salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the taste.

Ingredient Notes:
✔ Almond Butter Substitute: You can swap almond butter with peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter.
✔ Protein Powder Choice: Whey, casein, or plant-based protein powder all work. Whey makes the smoothest texture.
✔ Sweetener Options: Monk fruit and erythritol work best for keto, but you can also use stevia or allulose.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

  1. In a large mixing bowl, add the almond butter, protein powder, almond flour, sweetener, shredded coconut, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
  2. Using a spoon or rubber spatula, mix everything together until a thick dough forms.
  3. If the mixture is too dry, add 1-2 tbsp of almond milk to help it stick together.
  4. If the mixture is too sticky, add a little more almond flour until it firms up.

Tip: The dough should be thick and easy to roll into balls. It should hold its shape but not be too wet or crumbly.

Step 2: Shape the Protein Balls

  1. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball using your hands.
  2. Repeat until all the dough is used (this recipe makes about 12-15 balls).
  3. If desired, roll the balls in shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or cocoa powder for extra texture and flavor.

Pro Tip: Lightly grease your hands with coconut oil before rolling to prevent the mixture from sticking!

Step 3: Chill & Enjoy!

  1. Place the protein balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to firm up.
  2. Enjoy immediately, or store them for later!

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

🥶 Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
❄️ Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
🔥 Thawing: If frozen, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.

Tip: These taste amazing straight from the fridge – chewy, creamy, and satisfying!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving – 1 Protein Ball, Approximate)

NutrientAmount
Calories120
Protein6g
Fat9g
Net Carbs2g

Note: Macros may vary depending on your protein powder and sweetener choice.

Flavor Variations & Fun Add-Ins

🍫 Chocolate Almond Butter Balls – Use chocolate protein powder and mix in 1 tbsp cocoa powder.
🥜 Peanut Butter Protein Balls – Swap almond butter for natural peanut butter.
🥥 Coconut Bliss Balls – Roll in extra shredded coconut before chilling.
🍓 Berry Almond Protein Balls – Add freeze-dried strawberries or blueberries.
🌰 Crunchy Nutty Balls – Mix in chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for extra crunch.
🍯 Maple Cinnamon Protein Balls – Add ½ tsp cinnamon and ½ tsp maple extract for a warm, cozy flavor.

Best Ways to Enjoy Almond Butter Protein Balls

✔ Morning Energy Boost – Grab one with your coffee!
✔ Pre-Workout Fuel – A great source of quick, clean energy before hitting the gym.
✔ Post-Workout Recovery – Helps replenish protein and keep you full.
✔ On-the-Go Snack – Perfect for road trips, hikes, or work lunches.
✔ Healthy Dessert Alternative – A sweet treat without the guilt!