Servings: 12 balls | Prep Time: 10 minutes | No baking required
Let’s Talk About These Little Guys
These Orange Creamsicle Protein Balls are like a sweet, zesty hug in snack form. If you love those creamy orange popsicles from back in the day, you’re going to flip for these.
They’re soft, chewy, and taste like dessert — but they’re packed with protein and made with real ingredients.
I’ve made these on busy afternoons when I need a pick-me-up, and they never last more than a day in my house.
They’re great after a workout, between meals, or honestly… just because.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup vanilla protein powder
- 2 tablespoons honey
- ⅓ cup almond butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon white chocolate chips (optional)
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is a regular go-to in my house. Here’s why:
- Tastes like dessert: Creamy, citrusy, sweet — like a childhood creamsicle!
- Fast: 10 minutes from start to finish. No baking, no waiting.
- Portable: Toss them in a container and take them anywhere.
- Balanced snack: Carbs + protein = steady energy.
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Protein + fiber from oats and protein powder keeps you full longer.
- Citrus zest and juice add flavor without extra sugar.
- Nut butter helps bind everything and adds healthy fats.
- Honey acts as a natural sweetener and glue.
Meal Plan Ideas
- Post-workout snack with a banana
- Afternoon pick-me-up with green tea
- Quick breakfast with Greek yogurt and berries
- Sweet end to lunch without the sugar crash
Pro Tips
- Roll with damp hands to avoid sticking.
- Use a microplane for zesting – it makes a big difference!
- Chill before serving if you want a firmer texture.
- Toast the coconut for a deeper, nutty flavor.
- Add collagen powder for an extra protein boost.
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowl
- Microplane or fine grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or small cookie scoop
- Airtight container
Substitutions and Variations
- Use peanut butter or cashew butter instead of almond
- Swap honey for maple syrup
- Replace orange zest with lemon or lime for a twist
- Use chocolate protein powder for a creamsicle-chocolate combo
- Add chia seeds or flaxseed for extra fiber
Make Ahead Tips
You can make a batch and store them in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Great for meal prep!
Let’s Make Them!
Step 1: Mix the Dry Stuff
Add to a bowl:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup vanilla protein powder
- ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- Pinch of salt
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Add to the same bowl:
- 2 tablespoons honey
- ⅓ cup almond butter
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step 3: Add the Orange Zest
Add:
- Zest of 1 orange
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
Use a spoon or clean hands to mix until combined and dough-like.
Step 5: Add White Chocolate Chips (Optional)
Add:
- 1 tablespoon white chocolate chips
Step 6: Roll into Balls
Scoop out 1 tablespoon at a time and roll into balls with your hands.
Leftovers and Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days
- Freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months
- Thaw in the fridge or pop one in your lunch and it’ll soften up by snack time
Why These Are So Good (Macros)
Per ball (1 of 12):
- Calories: 112
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
What to Serve With
- Hot or iced green tea
- Fresh fruit like grapes or berries
- A smoothie or protein shake
- Greek yogurt
Common Mistakes
- Not mixing well – you want all the oats coated or they’ll taste dry
- Using dry nut butter – it won’t bind well
- Skipping the zest – that’s where the magic orange flavor comes from!
FAQ
Q: Can I use steel-cut oats?
A: Nope — they won’t soften enough. Rolled oats are best.
Q: Do I have to refrigerate them?
A: Yes, they firm up and stay fresh much longer chilled.
Q: What protein powder works best?
A: I like vanilla whey, but a plant-based one works too! Just make sure you like the taste.
Let’s Wrap This Up
If you love a quick, no-fuss snack that tastes like dessert and actually fills you up — this one’s for you. Try them out, make a double batch (you’ll want to!), and let me know how they turned out for you! Drop a comment below with your thoughts or questions. I’d love to hear what twists you put on it!