Peanut Butter Banana Protein Balls are little bites packed with creamy peanut butter, natural sweetness from ripe bananas, and a boost of protein to keep you energized. They’re soft, chewy, and just the right size for a quick snack or a little pick-me-up anytime during the day.
I love making these protein balls when I need something simple and satisfying without any fuss. They come together in minutes with just a few ingredients, and I always keep a batch in the fridge for busy mornings or post-workout fuel. Plus, they’re great because you get that comforting peanut butter taste with a gentle hint of banana that balances everything nicely.
My favorite way to enjoy these is to grab a couple on my way out the door or toss them in my work bag for a snack at my desk. They’re also awesome to share with friends or family when you want to offer a treat that feels a little bit special but still healthy. Honestly, they’re such a handy snack, I can’t help but keep coming back to this recipe again and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled oats: These give the balls structure and a nice chew. If you want a smoother bite, try quick oats, but avoid instant oats as they get too mushy. For gluten-free, pick certified gluten-free oats.
Peanut butter: I like natural peanut butter with no added sugar or oils—it keeps the flavor pure and healthy. You can swap for almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you have a peanut allergy or prefer a different nut taste.
Banana: Ripe bananas are best here because they blend easily and add natural sweetness. Overripe bananas with brown spots work perfectly. You can try mashed pumpkin or applesauce if you want a different fruit base.
Protein powder: Vanilla flavored works well to add extra taste; unflavored is good if you want a more neutral flavor. You can use whey, plant-based, or collagen protein depending on your preference and diet.
Chocolate chips: Mini chips mix better throughout. Dark or semi-sweet chips add a touch of richness, but you can also skip them or add chopped nuts or dried fruit instead.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture for Protein Balls?
The texture is all about balancing wet and dry ingredients so the mixture sticks together but isn’t too sticky or crumbly.
- Start with ripe banana and peanut butter to provide moisture and binding.
- If the mixture feels dry and crumbly, add a little more mashed banana or a splash of milk.
- If it’s too wet, sprinkle in extra oats gradually until you get a dough that holds together.
- Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly — this helps with consistent texture and avoid dry patches.
- After shaping, chilling the balls in the fridge makes them firmer and easier to handle.
These tips help you get soft, chewy, and perfectly shaped protein balls every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – I recommend a medium bowl for mixing all your ingredients easily.
- Fork or potato masher – perfect for mashing the banana smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps you add just the right amount of each ingredient.
- Cookie scoop or spoon – makes shaping the balls quick and uniform.
- Parchment paper – keeps the balls from sticking to the baking sheet or plate.
- Refrigerator – necessary to chill and firm up the balls before serving.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chocolate chips for dried cranberries, chopped nuts, or coconut flakes for a different flavor and texture.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of chili powder to give a fun spice twist.
- Mix in chopped dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for extra richness.
- Use almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a different nutty taste.
How to Make Peanut Butter Banana Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (creamy or chunky as preferred)
- 1 ripe medium banana, mashed
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (mini or regular)
- 1/4 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes of chilling time in the fridge to let the protein balls firm up. So, in under 45 minutes, you’ll have a batch of tasty, grab-and-go snacks ready.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mash the Banana:
Start by peeling and mashing the ripe banana in a medium-sized bowl until it becomes smooth and creamy. This will add natural sweetness and help bind the mixture.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
Add the peanut butter, honey or maple syrup (if you want it sweeter), and vanilla extract to the mashed banana. Stir everything together well until smooth and combined.
3. Add Dry Ingredients:
Next, stir in the rolled oats, protein powder, chocolate chips, and a pinch of salt. Mix it all thoroughly to form a sticky dough. If the mix feels too wet, sprinkle in a little more oats; if it’s too dry, add a small splash of milk or a bit more mashed banana to reach the right consistency.
4. Shape the Protein Balls:
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches wide. Place them on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper to keep them from sticking.
5. Chill and Store:
Pop the balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up. Once chilled, you can enjoy them right away or store them in an airtight container. They keep well in the fridge for up to one week or can be frozen for longer storage.
Enjoy your homemade Peanut Butter Banana Protein Balls as a healthy snack or post-workout energizer anytime!
Can I Use Frozen Banana for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the banana and drain any extra liquid before mashing. This will help keep the mixture from becoming too wet.
Can I Substitute the Peanut Butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter all work well as alternatives if you want to change the flavor or avoid peanuts.
How Should I Store the Protein Balls?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the balls in a sealed container for up to 3 months and thaw briefly before eating.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Definitely! Prepare the protein balls in advance and keep them refrigerated. They’re perfect for meal prepping or grabbing a quick healthy snack on busy days.