Keto Protein Balls With Oats

Total Time: 20 minutes (Active: 20 minutes, Chilling: 1 hour minimum)
Difficulty: Easy
Yield: 16 protein balls
Category: Snack, Dessert, Meal Prep
Dietary Notes: Keto-Friendly*, Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, No-Bake

These irresistibly rich and fudgy keto protein balls are the perfect grab-and-go snack to crush cravings and fuel your day. Combining the satisfying chew of oats with chocolatey richness and a protein punch, they come together in just 20 minutes with no baking required. Ideal for meal prep, post-workout recovery, or a healthy dessert.

Note: While designed to be keto-friendly, the inclusion of a small amount of gluten-free oats adds fiber and texture. For a strict keto version, see the substitution notes below.

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Ingredients

For the Protein Balls:

• 1 cup almond flour (finely ground, blanched preferred)

• ½ cup gluten-free old-fashioned rolled oats (see note for strict keto)

• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (or cacao powder)

• ¼ cup unflavored or chocolate whey protein powder (or plant-based protein)

• ¼ cup powdered erythritol (or monk fruit sweetener)

• ¼ tsp sea salt

• ½ cup creamy almond butter (unsweetened, drippy style)

• ¼ cup unsalted butter or coconut oil, melted and slightly cooled

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

• 2-3 tbsp unsweetened almond milk (as needed)

For the Coating (Optional):

• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tbsp powdered erythritol

• A pinch of cinnamon

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Equipment Needed

• Medium mixing bowl

• Whisk or fork

• Spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Small cookie scoop (1-tablespoon size) or tablespoon

• Parchment paper

• Airtight container for storage

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Mix (5 minutes)

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, gluten-free oats, unsweetened cocoa powder, protein powder, powdered sweetener, and sea salt. Ensure all lumps are broken up and the mixture is uniformly combined. This step ensures even distribution of flavors and prevents clumping.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients (3 minutes)

To the dry ingredients, add the creamy almond butter, melted (and cooled) butter or coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Using a spatula or your hands, mix thoroughly. The mixture will be thick and crumbly at first.

Step 3: Achieve the Perfect Dough (2 minutes)

Begin to knead the mixture with your hands. If it does not hold together when pinched, add almond milk one tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition, until the dough is pliable and holds its shape when rolled. You may not need all the milk.

Step 4: Roll the Balls (10 minutes)

Line a small baking sheet or plate with parchment paper. Using a small cookie scoop or a rounded tablespoon, portion out the dough. Roll each portion firmly between your palms to form a smooth, compact ball, about 1 inch in diameter. Place each ball on the parchment paper.

Step 5: Coat (Optional) & Chill

If using the coating, whisk the cocoa powder, powdered sweetener, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Roll each ball lightly in the coating mixture until dusted. Place the balls back on the parchment.
Crucial Step: Refrigerate the balls for at least 1 hour to allow them to firm up and the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Store and Serve

Once firm, transfer the keto protein balls to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Enjoy straight from the fridge for a firm, fudgy texture, or let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes for a slightly softer bite.

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Chef’s Notes & Substitutions

• For Strict Keto: Replace the ½ cup oats with an additional ¼ cup almond flour and ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut or chia seeds.

• Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed flour instead of almond flour and sunflower seed butter in place of almond butter. (Note: Sunflower seed butter may turn the dough slightly green over time due to a chemical reaction—it’s still safe to eat!)

• Protein Powder: Any low-carb, keto-friendly protein powder works. Vanilla, chocolate, or unflavored are best. The recipe has been tested with both whey and pea protein.

• Sweetness: Adjust the sweetener to your taste. For a less sweet ball, reduce by 1 tablespoon.

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Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 protein ball (recipe makes 16). Estimated values are approximate.