Zucchini bread… but make it snackable. These Zucchini Bread Protein Balls are soft, sweet, and packed with all the cozy flavors of your favorite quick bread — just in bite-size form.
They’re perfect for meal prep, post-gym snacking, or whenever you’re craving something sweet but healthy-ish.
No baking needed, easy to whip up in one bowl, and yep — we’re sneaking in veggies without it tasting “healthy.” Let’s make ‘em.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup shredded zucchini (squeeze out excess liquid)
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Why I Love This Recipe
I started making these when I was looking for a way to use up leftover zucchini and my afternoons needed a little sweet boost. They’re super satisfying, don’t need any baking, and give major cozy vibes.
- They taste like a mini slice of zucchini bread
- No oven = no sweat
- Easy to meal prep
- Sweet, nutty, and packed with texture
- A good way to sneak in extra protein and fiber
Makes: About 14–16 balls
Time: 10 minutes (plus chill time if you want them firmer)
🧠 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Zucchini adds moisture and fiber without overpowering the flavor — it’s a sneaky vegetable hero. The oats help bind everything, while protein powder gives structure and keeps you full longer. Nut butter and honey hold everything together and add that soft, chewy texture.
Meal Plan Ideas
- Grab-and-go breakfast with a banana
- Mid-morning snack with a matcha or coffee
- Post-workout refuel
- Dessert after dinner without the sugar crash
Common Mistakes
- Not squeezing the zucchini: Too much water = mushy balls.
- Using a gritty protein powder: Pick one that mixes well or your texture will be chalky.
- Overmixing: Stir just until combined to keep the oats nice and chewy.
What to Serve With
- A hot cup of tea or coffee
- Yogurt and berries
- Sliced apple or banana with a little extra almond butter
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Cookie scoop (or tablespoon)
- Paper towels (to squeeze zucchini)
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap almond butter for peanut or sunflower seed butter
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for vegan version
- Add mini chocolate chips
- Use pumpkin spice instead of just cinnamon and nutmeg
- Sub chopped pecans instead of walnuts
Make-Ahead Tips
These store really well! You can make them ahead and keep them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for a month.
Instructions
Step 1: Shred and Prep the Zucchini
Grab about half a small zucchini and shred it using a box grater. Wrap it in a paper towel and squeeze out as much water as you can. You want it to be damp but not dripping.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and the squeezed shredded zucchini. Stir until smooth.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Add oats, protein powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, chopped walnuts, and a pinch of salt to the bowl. Stir until fully combined and the mixture starts to hold together.
Step 4: Scoop and Roll
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to scoop the mixture and roll into balls using your hands.
Step 5: Chill (Optional)
Pop the balls in the fridge for 15–30 minutes if you want them to firm up a bit.
Leftovers and Storage
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days, or freeze for up to 1 month. Just let them thaw a bit before eating if frozen.
FAQs
Can I skip the protein powder?
Yes! Just add 1–2 more tablespoons of oats to balance the texture.
Do I have to chill them?
Nope! They’re ready to eat right away, but chilling makes them a little firmer.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture will be softer and less chewy.
Let’s Wrap It Up!
These little bites are cozy, filling, and crazy easy to make. Once you try them, you’ll find yourself making them again and again — they’re just that handy to have around. If you give these a try, let me know how it goes in the comments! Got a question or a favorite twist? I’d love to hear it. 💬
Happy snacking!
