Lemon Poppy Seed Protein Balls

If you’re always reaching for a little something between meals, these Lemon Poppy Seed Protein Balls are a total game-changer. They’re bright and tangy from fresh lemon, naturally sweetened, and packed with protein so they actually fill you up. Plus, no baking required—just stir, roll, and chill. They taste like a lemon poppy seed muffin but made for snack time!

💛 Why I Love This Recipe

lemon poppy seed protein balls arranged in a small white dish, dusted lightly with shredded coconut, with flecks of poppy seeds and lemon zest visible.

These were born from my love for lemon desserts and my need for grab-and-go snacks. They’re refreshing, satisfying, and kids love them too!

No baking, no fuss
Just the right amount of sweetness
Packed with plant-based protein
Freezer-friendly
Tastes like lemon cake (but better for you!)

🍋 Makes: 12–14 balls

⏱️ Ready in: 10 minutes (plus 10 minutes chill time)

🛒 What You’ll Need

1 cup rolled oats
½ cup almond flour
½ cup vanilla protein powder
2 tablespoons poppy seeds
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon lemon zest
3 tablespoons lemon juice (fresh)
2 tablespoons almond butter
1–2 tablespoons water, as needed

ingredients for lemon poppy seed protein balls: rolled oats in a clear glass jar, almond flour in a second clear jar, vanilla protein powder in a small clear bowl, poppy seeds on a small white plate, honey on another small white plate, lemon zest on a small round dish, fresh lemon juice in a small clear glass jar, almond butter in a shallow white dish, and water in a tiny clear bowl.

👩‍🍳 How to Make Lemon Poppy Seed Protein Balls

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, add rolled oats, almond flour, protein powder, and poppy seeds. Stir to combine.

oats, almond flour, protein powder, and poppy seeds mixed together in a white mixing bowl

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Add lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, and almond butter. Mix until everything is sticky and holds together.

lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, and almond butter being stirred into the dry mixture, forming a thick dough.

Step 3: Adjust Texture with Water

If the mix feels too dry, add 1 tablespoon of water at a time until it’s easy to roll.

a small spoonful of water being drizzled into the dough, slightly softening the texture

Step 4: Roll into Balls

Scoop and roll into 1-inch balls using clean hands. Place on a plate or tray.

hands rolling a lemon poppy seed protein ball, showing the speckled dough

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Pop them in the fridge for 10–15 minutes so they firm up.

lemon protein balls resting in a single layer on a plate, ready to chill in the fridge

🍽️ What to Serve With

A cold smoothie or protein shake
A matcha latte
Greek yogurt and berries
A cup of hot tea
Sliced apple with almond butter

❓ FAQ

Can I use a different nut butter?
Yep! Cashew or peanut butter work well, just keep the texture smooth.

What if I don’t have protein powder?
You can skip it and add more almond flour or oats until it holds.

Are they freezer-friendly?
Totally. Just freeze in a bag and thaw one at a time for snacking.

Do they taste like dessert?
Yes! They’re lemony and sweet, like a mini cake bite.

Can I add extras like chia or coconut?
Sure! A tablespoon of chia or shredded coconut is a great boost.

✨ That’s It!

These Lemon Poppy Seed Protein Balls are quick to make, full of bright citrus flavor, and great for snacking any time of day. Keep a batch in the fridge for busy mornings or sweet tooth moments. Let me know if you try them—I bet they won’t last long! 🍋💛💪