Pistachio Cranberry Protein Balls (Quick & Healthy Snack)
These Pistachio Cranberry Protein Balls are chewy, nutty, and bursting with tart cranberries and rich pistachio flavor. Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, they make a deliciously festive and energizing snack that’s perfect year-round!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 14 balls
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick oats)
- 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup raw shelled pistachios (plus extra for rolling or topping)
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened or reduced-sugar if possible)
- 1/4 cup almond butter or cashew butter (smooth and creamy)
- 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons almond milk or water (as needed for consistency)
- 1 pinch sea salt
Instructions
1. In a food processor, pulse pistachios until finely chopped but not completely ground.
2. Add oats, protein powder, and sea salt to the processor and pulse again to combine.
3. Add almond butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture starts to stick together.
4. If too dry, add almond milk one tablespoon at a time until a dough-like texture forms.
5. Fold in dried cranberries and pulse once or twice to incorporate, or mix by hand for chunkier texture.
6. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands or a small scoop.
7. Optional: roll the protein balls in finely chopped pistachios or shredded coconut for extra crunch.
8. Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to firm up before serving.
9. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
For a festive twist, drizzle with white chocolate or add a touch of orange zest to the mixture.
You can swap cranberries for dried cherries or apricots for variation.
Perfect as a pre-workout snack, lunchbox treat, or a healthier holiday bite!
Use natural nut butter for a smoother mix and cleaner ingredients.
Find it online: https://cookingwithramsay.com/pistachio-cranberry-protein-balls/