As an athlete, it's important to get a good amount of protein in your system in order to have sustainable energy and rebuild your muscles after a hard workout. Finding healthy options and snacks that give you a good amount of protein are sometimes hard, especially when you're running from class to practice. These two protein ball recipes can be made in advance and eaten on the go! 

Related: Why Athletes Need Protein: Muscle Repair and Growth

Peanut Butter Protein Balls

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup peanut butter (or substitute with almond butter or sun butter)
• 1/3 cup vanilla protein powder (or whatever flavor you prefer!)
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (can substitute quick oats)
• 3 tbsp mini chocolate chips 
• 2 tbsp honey (can substitute pure maple syrup)
• 1 tbsp chia seeds 
• Water, as needed

Instructions:

1. Mix together all of the ingredients in a bowl. If the mixture is dry, add water. 
2. Using a tablespoon, portion out the mixture. 
3. Roll portions into small balls; the recipe should yield about 16 protein balls. 
4. Store in the fridge up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for 3 months 

Related: Athlete-Tested Protein Smoothie

Pumpkin Cookie Protein Balls 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup peanut butter (or substitute with almond butter or sun butter)
• 1 cup natural pumpkin puree
• 3 cups rolled oats (can substitute with quick oats)
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips 
• ⅔ cup maple syrup (can substitute with honey)
• 4 tbsp flax seeds 
• ½ tsp cinnamon 
• ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
• ½ tbsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Mix together all of the ingredients in a bowl 
2. Using a tablespoon, portion out the mixture. 
3. Roll into small balls
4. Freeze for 1 hour 

What's your favorite pre- or post-game recipe? Email us at [email protected]

* Originally published on February 10, 2022, by Andrea Leitner