Delicious Kodiak Cakes Protein Balls are a perfect little snack packed with wholesome ingredients and a boost of protein. These bites combine the hearty goodness of Kodiak Cakes flapjack and waffle mix with tasty add-ins like peanut butter, honey, and a sprinkle of chocolate chips for a sweet touch. They’re chewy, satisfying, and easy to make, making them a great choice for a quick energy boost anytime.
I love making these protein balls when I need something to take on the go or after a workout. They’re so simple to whip up and don’t require baking, which is a big plus for busy days. What’s fun is mixing in your favorite extras—nuts, seeds, or dried fruit—to customize each batch. I often keep a jar of them in the fridge so I have a healthy snack ready whenever hunger strikes.
These protein balls are great for sharing with friends or packing in lunchboxes. I like to enjoy them with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a little mid-morning pick-me-up. If you’re looking for a tasty way to fuel your day that’s both satisfying and easy, these Kodiak Cakes Protein Balls are a go-to favorite in my kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kodiak Cakes Power Cakes Mix: This mix is packed with protein and whole grains. If you don’t have it, use any high-protein pancake or waffle mix, or try oat flour with a scoop of protein powder for a similar effect.
Peanut Butter: I like natural peanut butter for its flavor and healthy fats. Almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter work well too if you want to switch it up or avoid peanuts.
Honey or Maple Syrup: These add natural sweetness and help bind the balls. Maple syrup is a good vegan option. If you prefer less sweetness, cut the amount in half or use mashed ripe banana.
Old-Fashioned Oats: They add texture and fiber. Rolled oats are ideal, but quick oats can work if that’s what you have on hand.
Mini Chocolate Chips: These bits add a fun touch. You can skip them or replace with dried fruit or chopped nuts for variety.
How Do You Get the Perfect Dough Consistency for Protein Balls?
The key to shaping these protein balls is the texture of the dough—it should stick together but not be too wet or crumbly. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with less milk, adding just a tablespoon at a time. Mix well after each addition.
- When the dough holds together if pressed and forms a ball without sticking to your hands too much, it’s ready.
- If too dry, add a bit more milk; if too sticky, add a little more protein mix or oats.
- Use a spoon or cookie scoop to portion dough, then roll gently between your palms.
- Chilling the balls helps them firm up and hold their shape better.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I use a medium-sized bowl to combine all ingredients easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate measurement of ingredients.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps stir everything together smoothly.
- Tablespoon or cookie scoop – makes portioning the dough quick and uniform.
- Parchment paper and a baking sheet or plate – to lay out the shaped protein balls for chilling.
- Refrigerator – to set the balls and keep them fresh.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Replace chocolate chips with dried cranberries, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for different textures and flavors.
- Mix in a spoonful of cocoa powder or cinnamon for a warm, spicy twist.
- Add a scoop of protein powder or collagen peptides to boost the protein content.
- Use almond or other nut butters instead of peanut butter for a different flavor profile.
Delicious Kodiak Cakes Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup Kodiak Cakes Power Cakes mix (or any high-protein pancake/waffle mix)
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (or any nut butter)
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup old-fashioned oats
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- 2 to 3 tbsp milk (dairy or plant-based), as needed for consistency
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and mix, plus 30 minutes of chilling time to let the protein balls firm up. It’s a quick and easy snack you can enjoy throughout the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, add 1 cup Kodiak Cakes mix, ¼ cup oats, and a pinch of salt if you like. Stir these dry ingredients together so they’re evenly combined.
2. Add Wet Ingredients & Stir:
Add ½ cup peanut butter, ¼ cup honey or maple syrup, and 1 tsp vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir until the mixture starts to come together into a sticky dough.
3. Adjust Consistency with Milk:
Slowly add 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk, one tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stop when the dough sticks together but isn’t too wet or sticky to handle.
4. Fold In Chocolate Chips:
Gently mix in ¼ cup mini chocolate chips to distribute them evenly throughout the dough.
5. Shape the Protein Balls:
Using a tablespoon or your hands, scoop out small amounts of dough and roll them between your palms to form bite-sized balls. Place each ball on a plate or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Chill to Set:
Refrigerate the balls for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up so they hold their shape well.
7. Store and Enjoy:
Keep the protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Enjoy them anytime you need a quick, healthy snack or energy boost!
Can I Use Different Nut Butters in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter are great alternatives if you want to switch up the flavor or avoid peanuts. Just make sure your nut butter is smooth for easy mixing.
How Should I Store Kodiak Cakes Protein Balls?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the protein balls in a freezer-safe bag or container and thaw a few minutes before eating.
Can I Make These Protein Balls Ahead of Time?
Yes! They actually taste better after chilling for a few hours or overnight. You can prepare a batch ahead and keep them refrigerated or frozen for convenient snacking.
What Can I Use Instead of Kodiak Cakes Mix?
If you don’t have Kodiak Cakes mix, try a high-protein pancake mix, or use oat flour combined with protein powder. This will keep the protein boost and similar texture.