Buckeye Balls

5 from 1 vote

These buckeye balls are a no-bake, high protein snack that combines creamy peanut butter, vanilla protein powder, and a dark chocolate shell. Easy to make and perfect for meal prep, they're a healthier twist on the classic buckeye candy. Great for post-workout fuel, afternoon cravings, or a quick grab-and-go treat.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

SERVINGS: 14 balls

Ingredients

▢ 1 cup natural peanut butter
▢ 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder whey or plant-based
▢ 1/3 cup oat flour
▢ 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
▢ 1-2 tbsp milk of choice as needed
▢ 1/4 tsp salt omit if PB is salted
▢ 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
▢ 1 tsp coconut oil for melting chocolate

Instructions

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Mix the peanut butter, protein powder, oat flour, syrup, vanilla, and salt in a bowl. Add milk if needed to form a thick dough.
Roll into 14 to 16 balls and freeze for 15 to 20 minutes.
Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in 20 to 30 second increments until smooth.
Dip each ball halfway into the chocolate, leaving the buckeye top exposed.
Chill again until the shell sets.

Notes

Consistency tip: if the dough feels sticky, add 1 tablespoon of oat flour or protein powder at a time until firm enough to roll. If it cracks, add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of milk.
For smooth dipping: chill the balls 10 to 15 minutes before dipping so the chocolate sets quickly and gives that perfect buckeye look.
Chocolate options: dark, milk, or semi-sweet all work. A teaspoon of coconut oil helps the chocolate melt smoother.
Nut butter swaps: almond or cashew butter both work well. Cashew butter tastes closest to traditional buckeyes.
Make it dairy-free: use a plant-based protein powder and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Freezer friendly: these freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw 5 to 10 minutes before eating.
Meal prep tip: double the batch and store half in the freezer for grab-and-go snacks all week.
Oat flour note: no oat flour? Blend rolled oats until very fine.
Salted peanut butter: if using salted PB, taste before adding any extra salt.
Holiday tip: these make great homemade gifts. Place them in mini paper cups and box them like truffles.

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