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Holly Jolly Protein Balls (Festive & Fun!) - A No-Bake Holiday Snack

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Rolled oats (old-fashioned; not instant)
  • Vanilla or chocolate protein powder (whey or plant-based)
  • Nut or seed butter (peanut, almond, cashew, or sunflower for nut-free)
  • Honey or maple syrup
  • Ground flaxseed or chia seeds
  • Mini chocolate chips (dark or semi-sweet)
  • Vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Holiday sprinkles or crushed peppermint for coating
  • Optional add-ins: cinnamon, orange zest, shredded coconut, dried cranberries, chopped pistachios
  • Optional moisture adjusters: milk of choice or a splash of water

Method
 

  1. Prep the base: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups rolled oats, 1/2 cup protein powder, 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed, and a pinch of salt. Stir to blend.
  2. Add the wet ingredients: Add 1/2 cup nut or seed butter, 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix with a sturdy spoon until a thick dough forms.
  3. Adjust texture: If the mixture is too dry or crumbly, add 1–2 teaspoons milk or water. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more oats or protein powder.
  4. Fold in the fun: Stir in 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips. Add optional extras like 2 tablespoons dried cranberries or 1 teaspoon orange zest if you like.
  5. Chill briefly: Pop the bowl in the fridge for 10 minutes to make rolling easier.
  6. Roll into balls: Scoop about 1 heaping tablespoon per ball and roll between your palms. You should get 16–20 balls.
  7. Make them festive: Roll each ball in holiday sprinkles or crushed peppermint to coat the outside. Press lightly so the coating sticks.
  8. Set and store: Place on a parchment-lined plate and chill for 15 minutes to firm up. Enjoy or transfer to an airtight container.