Cake Batter Protein Balls Recipe
If you’re on a mission to satisfy your sweet tooth while still nourishing your body, Cake Batter Protein Balls will quickly become your new favorite snack. Imagine all the irresistible flavors of birthday cake — rich vanilla, an almond-kissed finish, and those little pops of colorful crunch — but with an easy, nutritious twist that’s perfect any time of day. These little orbs are packed with protein, incredibly fun to make, and nearly impossible to stop at just one! Whether you need a quick breakfast grab, a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or a party platter treat, this recipe delivers pure joy with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Cake Batter Protein Balls lies in how just a handful of everyday ingredients come together to create a chewy, energizing, and absolutely crave-worthy snack. Each component adds something special — from creamy texture to playful color — and together, they form a recipe you’ll return to again and again!
- Cashew Butter: Provides a luxuriously creamy base and subtle sweetness; make sure it’s well-stirred for the silkiest dough.
- Maple Syrup or Honey: Adds just the right touch of natural sweetness while helping bind everything together.
- Vanilla Protein Powder: Boosts the protein content and infuses every bite with that classic cake flavor.
- Oat Flour: Gives structure and a tender, cookie dough-like texture; you can make your own by blitzing oats in a blender.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the cake batter flavor and adds irresistible aroma.
- Almond Extract (optional): Just a little brings an authentic bakery note to the mix — highly recommended if you love that classic cake experience!
- Sprinkles: The star topping for that festive, funfetti effect (plus, who doesn’t love edible confetti?).
- Pinch of Salt: Rounds out the sweetness and deepens all the delicious flavors.
How to Make Cake Batter Protein Balls
Step 1: Mix Wet Ingredients
Start by adding the cashew butter, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and almond extract to a medium-sized mixing bowl. Stir until everything is fully combined and smooth. This flavorful, glossy base sets the stage for that dreamy cake batter taste!
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Next, sprinkle in the vanilla protein powder, oat flour, and a pinch of salt. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold and mix until a thick and slightly sticky dough forms. The dough should hold together easily; if it seems too dry, add a tiny splash more syrup, and if too wet, a spoonful more oat flour will do the trick.
Step 3: Fold in the Sprinkles
Now comes the most fun part: gently fold in your sprinkles! Doing this by hand (rather than with a mixer) helps prevent the colors from running while ensuring those cheerful bursts are evenly distributed throughout every bite.
Step 4: Scoop and Roll
Scoop heaping tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them between your palms to create smooth, compact balls. Aim for about 1 to 1 1/2 inch balls — this is the perfect snackable size and helps each batch go further!
Step 5: Double the Fun with Extra Sprinkles
If you’re in the mood for extra pizzazz, gently roll each Cake Batter Protein Ball in a shallow dish of additional sprinkles. This not only looks festive but adds more of that irresistible, sweet crunch to the outside.
Step 6: Chill and Store
Line up your finished protein balls on a plate or tray, then pop them into the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up. They’re ready to enjoy straight from the fridge, and the colder temperature helps intensify those cake batter flavors!
How to Serve Cake Batter Protein Balls
Garnishes
To take your Cake Batter Protein Balls to the next level, sprinkle a few extra funfetti pieces right before serving, or drizzle with a little melted white chocolate for an even more decadent treat. A light dusting of powdered sugar will also give them that bakery-fresh look.
Side Dishes
These protein balls are wonderful alongside a creamy yogurt parfait, a tall glass of almond milk, or even nestled next to fruit for a beautiful snack plate. They also make the cheeriest lunchbox treat or after-school energy bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile your Cake Batter Protein Balls in colorful cupcake liners or mini dessert cups for parties and brunches. Try threading them on skewers with strawberries for a protein-packed fruit kabob, or stack in mason jars tied with ribbon as adorable edible gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Cake Batter Protein Balls fresh, place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They’ll happily last up to two weeks, making them a fantastic prep-ahead snack for busy weeks or on-the-go afternoons.
Freezing
Freeze your protein balls in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to three months, and you can enjoy them straight from the freezer for a firmer texture (or let them thaw briefly at room temp).
Reheating
These are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer them a bit softer, let refrigerated or frozen balls sit out for 10–15 minutes before snacking. No actual reheating is necessary, which keeps things super simple.
FAQs
Can I use almond butter or peanut butter instead of cashew butter?
Absolutely! Both almond and peanut butter work beautifully and slightly alter the base flavor. Cashew keeps things extra neutral and cakey, but experimenting with nut butters is a delicious way to make these your own.
What type of protein powder works best for Cake Batter Protein Balls?
A vanilla-flavored protein powder brings out that iconic cake batter sweetness and aroma. You can use whey or a plant-based variety, just make sure it’s one you enjoy the flavor of, as it’ll shine through.
Can I make these without oat flour?
Yes! Swap the oat flour for almond flour, coconut flour (just use less since it’s more absorbent), or even crushed graham crackers in a pinch. Each option creates a slightly different texture, but all are tasty.
Are these safe for kids?
Definitely! Just double-check the protein powder labeling for age suitability, and look for sprinkles that are dye-free if desired. Kids love rolling the balls and, of course, eating them!
How can I make these Cake Batter Protein Balls vegan?
Simply use maple syrup instead of honey and choose a vegan vanilla protein powder. All the other ingredients are already plant-based, making these an easy vegan treat.
Final Thoughts
It’s such a joy sharing my love for these Cake Batter Protein Balls with you — they’re truly a must-try for anyone craving a healthy snack with all the fun of cake! I hope you enjoy every sprinkle-packed bite, and that this recipe brings a little more color and cheer to your everyday routine.
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Cake Batter Protein Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cake Batter Protein Balls are a delicious and healthy snack that tastes like a treat. Made with cashew butter, protein powder, and sprinkles, these no-bake energy balls are perfect for a quick boost of energy.
Ingredients
Cake Batter Protein Balls:
- 1 cup cashew butter
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1/3 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1/3 cup oat flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but adds a cakey flavor)
- 3 tablespoons sprinkles (plus more for rolling)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Mix cashew butter: Add the cashew butter, vanilla, almond extract, and maple syrup to a bowl. Mix well.
- Add all ingredients: Add all remaining ingredients except the sprinkles and combine until a dough forms. I like to use a rubber spatula for easiest mixing.
- Add sprinkles: Fold in the sprinkles.
- Scoop: Scoop the dough and roll into roughly 1 to 1 1/2 inch balls. About 1 tbsp of dough.
- Roll in sprinkles: Roll the dough in additional sprinkles if desired.
- Store: Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Cake Batter Protein Balls, Energy Balls, No-Bake Snack, Protein Snack
