Cottage Cheese Protein Balls Recipe
Introduction
These Cottage Cheese Protein Balls are a no-bake, protein-rich snack combining wholesome ingredients into a creamy, indulgent bite. Packed with peanut butter, oats, and flaxseed, they provide a perfect grab-and-go treat to fuel your energy and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, peanut butter, and honey or maple syrup. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Step 2: Add the rolled oats, ground flaxseed, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the mixture. Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Step 3: Fold in the mini chocolate chips and shredded coconut if using, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Step 4: Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes to firm up and make it easier to handle.
- Step 5: Once chilled, use your hands or a small scoop to roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Step 6: Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
- Add a dash of cinnamon or a sprinkle of pumpkin spice for extra flavor.
- Swap chocolate chips for dried cranberries, blueberries, or chopped nuts to suit your taste.
- Roll the balls in extra shredded coconut or crushed nuts for added texture and visual appeal.
- Include a scoop of protein powder to boost protein content even more if desired.
Storage
Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 to 7 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before eating for the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these protein balls vegan?
Yes, to make them vegan, use plant-based cottage cheese alternatives and replace honey with maple syrup or another vegan sweetener.
Are these protein balls suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. These protein balls store well in the fridge or freezer, making them a convenient and nutritious snack for busy days or on-the-go eating.
Print
Cottage Cheese Protein Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 18–20 protein balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These no-bake Cottage Cheese Protein Balls are a wholesome, protein-packed snack perfect for fueling your day with sustained energy. Combining creamy cottage cheese, peanut butter, oats, and flaxseed, they deliver a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Easy to prepare and customizable, they make an ideal grab-and-go snack for gym enthusiasts, busy families, and anyone seeking a nutritious treat without added guilt.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Ingredients
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
Instructions
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, natural peanut butter, and honey or maple syrup. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add dry ingredients: Incorporate rolled oats, ground flaxseed, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into the wet mix. Stir well until all ingredients are fully combined.
- Fold in extras: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and shredded coconut if using. Make sure these are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Chill the mixture: Place the bowl in the refrigerator and chill for 20–30 minutes. This step firms up the mixture, making it easier to handle and shape.
- Shape into balls: Using your hands or a small scoop, roll the chilled mixture into 1-inch diameter balls, ensuring they are compact and hold together.
- Store properly: Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for extended shelf life of up to three months.
Notes
- You can swap chocolate chips for dried fruit or add cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Feel free to roll the balls in shredded coconut or crushed nuts for added texture.
- These protein balls are perfect for meal prep; they keep well refrigerated or frozen.
- Adjust sweetness according to taste by varying honey or maple syrup amount.
- Great for vegetarians and can be adapted to gluten-free diets by using certified gluten-free oats.
- Kid-friendly and ideal for post-workout recovery or a quick energy boost anytime.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cottage cheese protein balls, no-bake protein snack, healthy protein bites, energy balls, peanut butter snack, high protein snack, meal prep snack
