One of my favorite go to snacks are protein bars but these can get pricey and questionable when bought packaged in the store. Protein bars often have added sweeteners and hard-to-pronounce ingredients. I’ll admit, I still do buy them for convenience from time to time but I definitely prefer to make my own healthier protein treats, especially since knowing how simple and easy they really are. These protein balls are one of my all time favorite healthy snacks.

Don’t over-complicate making a good tasting protein bar/ball. All you need is a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time. I will include below common ingredients I use in my protein balls or bars but the amount and measurements are up to you! Experiment! I only measure these out if I am strictly counting my calories and macro-ingredients (fats, proteins, carbs). Otherwise, mix away and have fun!

Commonly used ingredients:

• Oats
• Peanut/almond butter
• Coconut oil
• Protein powder
• Stevia
• Honey
• Chia or Flax seed
• Vanilla extract
• Dried fruit
• Yogurt* (as needed for binding)
• Milk* (as needed for binding)

Mix your dry ingredients together and separately mix your wet ingredients together. Then add wet and dry mixes together. Test the consistency when rolling into a ball or pressing into a pan; if too dry, add yogurt or milk. You want the balls or bars to hold their shape and not crumble apart. Add the yogurt and/or milk in small quantities to reach desired consistency. Once formed into balls or pressed into foiled or wax paper lined pan, put in refrigerator or freezer and store.

These also make great treats to take to gatherings or add to your child’s lunch. A friend of mine makes these for healthier Halloween party treats for kids. You can feel better about handing them out knowing they are nutritious and are made with good-for-you foods! You can even make these seasonal by adding in spices or flavorings  (i.e. pumpkin pie spice, peppermint) as you wish.

Enjoy!