Looking for a tasty, protein-packed snack that also offers a boost of essential fatty acids? These high-protein peanut butter bliss balls are just what you need! Made with a mix of plant-based protein and Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), they’re not only satisfying but also reduce inflammation.
Perfect for a quick bite on the go or a post-workout refuel, these bliss balls are as nutritious as they are delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe, with just five ingredients and 4 grams of protein per ball, you can whip up this wholesome snack in no time!
Peanut butter bliss ball ingredients
These peanut butter bliss balls are high in protein thanks to both the peanut butter (the highest protein nut), and hemp seeds which are an unusual combination of fat and protein!
- Peanut Butter: natural peanut butter, where the ingredient list contains only peanuts, or maybe peanuts with salt. Smucker’s is my favorite, easy to find brand!
- Hemp Seeds: Better known as hemp hearts, have 9 grams of protein per serving but also supply GLA – gamma linolenic acid, an anti-inflammatory omega 6 fat! I have a deep dive on hemp seeds you can check out.
- Oats: whole or quick oats work here. If you want a smooth texture just grind them in a food processor first without the other ingredients to make into a flour. Remember to get gluten free if you need it!
- Honey: Honey is an age old medicinal food that has had such health effects attributed as wound healing, antimicrobial and anti inflammatory. Although studies are limited, the effects have been observed, especially when comparing honey to other sugar options.
Substitutions & variations
These peanut butter ball ingredient list is so short and simple that I hesitate to suggest substitutions. I most certainly would recommend keeping the hemp seeds, given its’ nutrient unique profile. But if you must alter the recipe, options are below 🙂
- Hemp Seeds: Could be swapped for any other seed or nut
- Oats: For a smoother texture you can try a different flour, such as almond flour, or a cereal grain like, cream of rice.
- Honey: Swap for maple syrup or another sugar and perhaps a bit of water to help bind.
- Additions: You could add chocolate for the classic peanut butter chocolate twist, or dried fruit, such as dried blueberries would be tasty too!
- Texture: If you prefer a chewier texture; you can either pulse the ingredients until just combined. Alternatively, you can use quick oats and add them after combining the other ingredients.
What’s GLA – gamma-linolenic acid?
Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) is a type of omega-6 fatty acid that plays an important role in the body’s inflammatory response. Unlike some other omega-6 fats, GLA has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Generally, we recognize omega 3’s as anti-inflammatory, so this is a rare find. Omega 6 competes for use in the body with omega 3’s, which makes the ratio an important indicator of health. This special fat is found in few foods, the primary one is human breast milk. Other foods include, hemp seeds, barley, oats and spirulina.
Storage tips
These peanut butter balls are best within the first 5-7 days, they tend to get dry as the days pass. Store them in an airtight container in your refrigerator. Enjoy!
FAQ
My favorite natural peanut butter is made by Smuckers, it is just peanuts and salt. I have tried several different brands, I find this one has the best taste and texture, never rancid and easy to find in most grocers.
Other healthy bliss ball recipes
Looking for more high-protein snack ideas? If you loved these peanut butter bliss balls, I’ve got a few more snack options that are just as nutritious and easy to make. From high protein cookie dough to the tastiest cacao bliss balls you’ll ever try!
High Protein Cookie Dough: ok, so not a ball, but soo tasty with apples, simple mills crackers or just a spoon!
No Bake Monster Balls: simple, 3 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber!Salted Cacao Bliss Balls: yummy chocolate healthy fat recipe!
Peanut Butter Bliss Balls – 5 ingredients & 4 grams of protein each!
Equipment
- Food Processor
- Spatula
- Measuring Scoops & Spoons
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup natural peanut butter
- 3/4 cup whole oats
- 1/2 cup hemp hearts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- Add all of the ingredients to the food processor and process for 15-30 seconds.
- Scrap down the sides of the food processor and repeat as necessary until the desired texture is reached and the ingredients come together into a thick dough.
- Once combined, use a cookie scoop or teaspoon to portion and shape by rolling between your hands.
- Makes about 20 balls.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
Notes
- If you wish for a very smooth texture pulse longer.
- For more of a crunch you can combine these ingredients together simply in a bowl with a spoon or spatula, using quick oats instead of rolled oats.