Churro Protein Balls Recipe

Introduction

If you’re craving a sweet snack that tastes like a churro but packs a protein punch, these Churro Protein Balls are just the ticket. They’re quick to make, require no baking, and are perfect for a post-workout boost or anytime treat.

Ingredients

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1/2 cup natural almond butter (runny kind)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tsp cinnamon (plus more for rolling)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt
• 1 tbsp coconut sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the oats, vanilla protein powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir well to blend the dry ingredients evenly.
2. Step 2: Add the runny almond butter, honey, and vanilla extract to the dry mix. Stir thoroughly until a dough forms and all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Step 3: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough. Roll each portion between your hands to form smooth balls.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, mix the coconut sugar with 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Roll each protein ball in this cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
5. Step 5: Optionally, place the balls in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm up if they feel sticky before serving or storing.

Tips & Variations

• Use runny almond butter to ensure the mixture sticks together well; dry almond butter won’t work as effectively.
• Substitute peanut or cashew butter for almond butter for a different nutty flavor.
• For a vegan version, swap honey for maple syrup and use plant-based protein powder.
• Add mini chocolate chips for a fun twist or roll the balls in crushed nuts instead of cinnamon sugar for extra crunch.
• If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more almond butter or honey to adjust the texture.

Storage

Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes or enjoy straight from the fridge for a cool, satisfying bite.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use peanut butter instead of almond butter?

Absolutely. Peanut butter works well as a substitute, though it will give the balls a more distinct peanut flavor.

Can I skip the protein powder?

You can omit the protein powder, but you may need to add extra oats or almond butter to maintain the right dough consistency.

Churro Protein Balls Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 73 reviews

Churro Protein Balls are an easy, no-bake snack that combines the sweet cinnamon sugar flavor of churros with a protein-packed boost from almond butter and protein powder. Ready in 10 minutes, these versatile treats are perfect for a post-workout snack, midday pick-me-up, or healthy dessert. They are customizable, freezer-friendly, and made with wholesome ingredients for a guilt-free indulgence.

• Author: Nethan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10–20 minutes
• Yield: Makes 12 protein balls 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon (plus more for rolling)
• Pinch of sea salt
• 1 tbsp coconut sugar (for rolling)

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup natural almond butter (runny kind)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder, 1 tsp cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir well until evenly mixed.
2. Add wet ingredients: Add 1/2 cup runny almond butter, 1/4 cup honey, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir thoroughly until a cohesive dough forms.
3. Scoop and roll: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough, then roll each portion into a smooth ball using your hands.
4. Coat with cinnamon sugar: In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp coconut sugar with 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Roll each protein ball in this mixture to evenly coat.
5. Chill (optional): Place the protein balls in the refrigerator for 10 minutes if they feel sticky, allowing them to firm up for easier handling.

Notes

• Use runny almond butter to ensure proper mixing; dry or thick almond butter will make it difficult to combine ingredients.
• A pinch of sea salt balances sweetness and enhances the churro flavor.
• Avoid adding too much protein powder to prevent drying out the mixture.
• Chilling the balls helps them firm up if they are sticky or soft initially.
• These protein balls can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week, or frozen for up to 2 months.

Keywords: churro protein balls, no-bake protein snack, healthy protein balls, cinnamon protein bites, almond butter snacks, easy protein balls, post-workout snack