If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy snack, then these crispy air fryer protein balls are the perfect choice to get your protein fix! Thanks to the quick and efficient air-fryer, you can make a batch of these tasty protein balls in just ten minutes. Much faster than baking them in a conventional oven. With natural ingredients and no artificial preservatives, these homemade protein balls are a healthier option compared to many store-bought snacks.
This recipe is incredibly versatile, serving as the perfect base for your own custom protein ball creations. You can add a scoop of protein powder to boost the nutritional value, mix in chopped nuts for a crunch, or even throw in some greens to sneak in a few extra vitamins. If you decide to add more ingredients, you might need a bit of extra peanut butter to help everything stick together and bind properly. These protein balls are a delicious and convenient way to ensure you’re getting more protein in your diet, all while having a wholesome snack available for those times when you just need a little something.
Once cooled, simply pop them in an airtight container to keep them fresh for the week ahead, or freeze them for a later date. I love making these protein balls in batches, so I always have some on hand for a quick nibble. Plus, they store really well, so I can keep a stash in the freezer for when the cravings strike. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout snack, a quick breakfast on the go, or just a healthier snack to keep you energized throughout the day, these air fryer protein balls are a delicious choice!
PREP 10 minutes
COOK 10 minutes
MAKES 3 protein balls
KIT you will need an air fryer and mixing bowl.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Protein Balls
2 ripe bananas
4 tablespoons of rolled oats
1 tablespoon of maple syrup
1 tablespoon of peanut butter
A teaspoon of chia seeds.
Method
In a large mixing bowl, begin by mashing two ripe bananas with a fork until you achieve a smooth, lump-free paste. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavourful your protein balls will be. Once mashed, add four tablespoons of rolled oats, one tablespoon of maple syrup for natural sweetness, one tablespoon of creamy peanut butter for richness and healthy fats, and one teaspoon of chia seeds to boost the fibre and protein content.
Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly using a spoon until everything is well combined. The mixture should be sticky but manageable. Then, using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls roughly the size of golf balls. If the mixture feels too sticky to handle, you can lightly oil your hands or chill the mixture for a few minutes to make it easier to work with.
Place the protein balls into the air fryer drawer with the crisper plate in. Leaving a bit of space between each one. Cook at 180°C (about 350°F) for 8 to 10 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure they become golden and crisp on all sides.
These air fryer protein balls are the perfect post-workout snack. They are packed full with natural energy, protein, and just the right touch of sweetness.
For adventurous eaters, this base recipe is endlessly customizable. Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder or dark chocolate chips for a chocolatey version, or mix in dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity variation. Chopped almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds offer crunch, and a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth. They’re also great for getting kids involved. The little ones love mashing bananas and shaping the mixture with their hands. It is a fun and healthy kitchen activity that the whole family can enjoy together!
Tips for Air Fryer Protein Balls
Air fryer protein balls are the ultimate snack – quick, nutritious, and endlessly customisable. While many protein ball recipes are no-bake, using your air fryer gives them a lovely toasted edge and helps firm them up slightly, making them ideal for lunchboxes or on-the-go snacks. Here’s how to get them just right:
1. Start with the right base
Use a mix of oats, nut butter, protein powder, and a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. This gives the balls structure, flavour, and protein punch.
2. Choose your add-ins
Add chopped nuts, seeds, dried fruit, or dark chocolate chips for texture and variety. Keep the add-ins chopped small so the balls hold together well.
3. Bind properly
If your mixture is too dry, add a spoonful of milk, extra nut butter, or a little water. If it’s too wet, stir in more oats or protein powder. The mixture should be tacky, not sticky.
4. Chill before air frying
Once rolled into balls, chill the mix in the fridge for 15–20 minutes. This helps them firm up and prevents them from spreading or cracking in the air fryer.
5. Use parchment or a silicone liner
Place the protein balls on a piece of parchment or a silicone mat in the air fryer basket to stop them sticking and make clean-up easier.
6. Air fry gently
Cook at 160°C (320°F) for 5–7 minutes. You’re not trying to cook them through, just lightly toast the outside while keeping the inside soft.
7. Cool before storing
Let the balls cool before storing. They firm up further as they cool and keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
These lightly toasted protein balls are a satisfying snack with a delicious crunch. Perfect after workouts or as a healthy treat!
Similar recipes
If you love these air fryer protein balls you might also like my air fryer chickpeas recipe.
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