Keto protein balls are a satisfying snack that require just six ingredients, take less than 10 minutes to make, and come in a variety of ways to flavor.
The whole family will love these Peanut Butter Protein Balls. Whether you’re hitting the gym or needing to fuel up for school pickup, these protein balls are a better (and tastier!) alternative to your store-bought alternatives.
only at 3.1 grams net carbs, these low carb protein balls are quick and easy to make. Plus, they’re high in healthy fats, so you’ll stay full between meals.
This one was inspired by my Easy Keto Peanut Butter Granola Bars on this site, which go well with this Quick Easy Coconut Coffee.
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raw material
Only six ingredients are needed to make these delicious keto peanut butter balls. Aside from the peanut butter itself, almond flour, keto-friendly protein powders, and a few interesting concoctions make up the rest of the ingredients needed.
Here’s what you need:
- Ketogenic protein powder – I chose to use vanilla protein powder for a milder taste.
- Unsweetened Natural Peanut Butter – Make sure to stir the peanut butter well when measuring to ensure the natural oils are incorporated.
- Almond powder – This helps hold everything together while keeping the pegs in place.
- flax seeds
- pumpkin seeds
- Macadamia – This is optional, but I recommend you try it.
See recipe card for quantities.
instruct
Peanut butter lovers, rejoice: Very little prep work is required to make keto balls!
If you choose to add macadamia nuts, the only ingredient that might require some preparation is the macadamia nuts.
I couldn’t find crushed macadamia nuts, so I put chopped chunks in a bag and used a rolling pin to break them into smaller pieces.
Of course, if you are not using macadamia nuts then you can skip this step.
Combine protein powder, almond meal, flaxseed, pumpkin seeds, and peanut butter in a food processor. Pulse a few times until your protein ball mixture crumbles.
Add a scoop of water to the protein ball mixture and mix. Continue adding water a spoonful at a time until the mixture sticks together, about 3-4 spoonfuls of water.
Spoon out the peanut butter mixture and form into a ball.
Roll each ball in crushed macadamia nuts, if desired.
Set ball aside and repeat ball forming until 18 keto bites are formed.
hint: If macadamia nuts don’t want to stick to your protein balls, dip balls in water or almond milk and roll in crushed nuts. The water will help the nuts stick to the protein balls without making them sticky.
Substitution
Looking for a substitute for one of the ingredients you need to make keto balls? Check out the common substitutions for some of the ingredients used in this recipe listed below.
- peanut butter – Any seed or nut butter can be used in place of peanut butter. Almond butter, cashew butter, and sunflower butter are some good options.
- pumpkin seeds – Substitute with a different seed or omit entirely.
- flax seeds – Flaxseed increases fiber content. You can substitute sesame or chia seeds for it, or omit it entirely.
Remember that any changes to ingredients will change the nutritional value of the recipe. Don’t see the replacement you’re looking for? Leave a comment for advice.
Variety
Are you looking to add some variety to your keto balls? Check out the list of flavor variations below. With just a few small tweaks, you can have a whole new flavor.
These flavors are great additions with or without macadamia nuts. Just make sure to check your nutrition to keep those low carbs.
- chocolate chips – Mix some unsweetened or dark chocolate chips into your protein balls.
- double chocolate – Use low carb chocolate protein powder or mix in a tablespoon of cocoa powder.
- Cinnamon – Sprinkled with some cinnamon, it tastes similar to granola.
Check out these 9 Best Sugar-Free Homemade Granola Recipes on my site for more flavor ideas!
equipment
I use a food processor to help me blend these peanut butter energy balls, but it’s not necessary. I mostly use a food processor so it will chop the pumpkin seeds for me.
If you like, you can use a mixing spoon to stir the egg whites in the bowl. Keep the pumpkin seeds whole or crush them like macadamia nuts.
storage
Your keto protein balls should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Energy Balls can also be stored frozen, thawing several at a time. Frozen protein balls can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-6 months.
top tips
The keto ball mixture will be dry when first mixed. Adding water a spoonful at a time will help your mixture stick together when forming into balls.
If you’re having trouble getting crushed macadamia nuts to stick to the balls, soak them in water and roll them in the nuts. This will help the nuts stick together without mushy egg whites.
Frequently Asked Questions About Peanut Butter Protein Balls
Isolate, pea, or collage protein powders are often low in carbs, sugar-free, and high in protein, so there are several brands that are keto-friendly.
Not all protein powders are keto-friendly, so be sure to read ingredient labels and look for keto-free sweeteners.
These protein balls are packed with protein, healthy fats and fiber without the added sugar. They’re a healthier alternative to snacking and refueling your body between meals.
Protein balls contain protein and nutrients that boost energy and help refuel the body. They’re best enjoyed before or after a workout or between meals to help keep you energized.
These protein balls are filling, so it is recommended to serve 1 protein ball. If you want more of a snack, I recommend making them into smaller bite-sized balls.
📖 recipes
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Keto Protein Balls (Keto Energy Balls)
Easy to make keto protein balls are great for on-the-go breakfasts or energy-packed snacks. Sugar free, gluten free and dairy free.
Serving Size: 18 ball
Net Carbs: 3.1G
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Adjust serving size: 18 ball
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instruct
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Combine protein powder, almond meal, flaxseed, pumpkin seeds, and peanut butter in a food processor. Pulse a few times until your protein ball mixture crumbles.
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Add a scoop of water to the protein ball mixture and mix. Continue adding water a spoonful at a time until the mixture sticks together, about 3-4 spoonfuls of water.
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Spoon out your protein balls and form them into a ball. Roll each ball in crushed macadamia nuts, if desired. enjoy! Store protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
notes
- I used ½ cup whole macadamia nuts and crushed them in the bag with a rolling pin. You can also crush macadamia nuts using a food processor.
- Dip the egg white balls in water and roll them in the crushed macadamia nuts if they have trouble sticking to the nuts.
nutrient content
Keto Protein Balls (Keto Energy Balls)
serving size
1 ball (makes 18 balls)
Amount per serving
% Daily Value*
–
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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For convenience, approximate nutritional information is provided as a courtesy only. For the most accurate nutritional data, use the actual ingredients and brands you use in your preferred nutrition calculator.
