plus size small cup

20-MINUTE ALMOND JOY PROTEIN BALLS (NO-BAKE + EASY!)

These 20-minute Almond Joy Protein Balls are the ultimate snack! If you’re looking for a quick, healthy treat that’s easy to prepare and can be stored in the freezer for months, you’ve found the perfect recipe. Plus, these gluten-free protein balls taste just like the classic candy bar!

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 cups rolled oats (or quick cooking oats)
  • 1 cup creamy or crunchy peanut butter (or any nut/seed butter)
  • 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup roughly chopped almonds, peanuts, or nut of choice (toasted almonds are preferred)
  • ⅓ cup honey or pure maple syrup
  • 2 scoops vanilla plant-based protein powder (can be omitted or substituted with a different flavored protein powder, or 2 scoops of collagen. See note 2.)
  • ¼ cup mini Dairy-Free Chocolate Chips
  • ½ cup water (you may need a little more or less depending on consistency. See note 3.)

Optional Add-Ins

  • 2 Tbs. cacao nibs
  • ⅓ cup hemp hearts/seeds
  • 3 Tbs. chia seeds

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine all ingredients (except for water) and mix thoroughly until evenly combined with no clumps of peanut butter.
  • Gradually add in ¼ cup of water, mixing again. Add another ¼ cup of water and continue mixing. The mixture should hold together when shaped into balls. If it’s still too dry, add 1 Tbs. of water at a time until it sticks together.
  • Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form the dough into balls (about 2 Tbs. each). Place them on the parchment-lined baking sheet (this recipe makes about 40). Freeze for 10-30 minutes until they are set.
  • Once set, transfer to a resealable bag or airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 6 months. These are perfect to eat straight from the freezer!

NOTES

  • Oats: While most oats are gluten-free, be sure to check the packaging if you’re following a strictly gluten-free diet.
  • Protein Powder Omission: If you opt to leave out the protein powder, reduce the water amount accordingly. Start with ¼ cup and add more if needed.
  • Water Amount: Depending on your protein powder, you may need more or less water. Some powders absorb more liquid, so adjust in small amounts until the dough holds together.

Be sure to tag @secretlyhealthyhome on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest with your protein bite creations! Your feedback and ratings help me keep creating more delicious recipes for you!

16 SHORTCUT TODDLER MEAL IDEAS (SO QUICK!)

Coming up with healthy meal ideas for toddlers after a long day—whether you’re working, staying home, or juggling a bit of both—can feel like a real challenge. It’s often the time when they crave our attention the most, yet they’re also in desperate need of food. (Anyone else dealing with a hangry toddler?)

MAC AND CHEESE WITH PEAS

Prepare boxed mac and cheese according to the instructions, then mix in cooked frozen peas for added fiber and protein.

QUICK PASTA WITH PEAS

Cook small pasta shapes (like stars or alphabet pasta) and add frozen peas during the last minute or two. Toss with butter and Parmesan, or swap the pasta for couscous, quinoa, or rice.

MINI PIZZAS

Top whole-wheat pita bread, tortillas, or English muffins with pizza sauce and shredded cheese. Heat in a 325°F oven or a skillet until the cheese melts.

HUMMUS AND PITA PLATE

Serve hummus with pita bread, cucumber slices, and apple slices for a no-cook, balanced meal.

CHEESY VEGGIE TOAST

Top toast with shredded cheese and thawed frozen veggies like peas, broccoli, or corn. Microwave for 10 seconds to melt, or serve the veggies on the side.

SMOOTHIE AND MUFFIN COMBO

Pair a toddler-friendly smoothie with a homemade or store-bought muffin for a quick, nutritious option.

APPLE PANCAKES

Add ½ cup of grated (and drained) apple to pancake batter, plus a pinch of cinnamon if desired. Cook as usual and top with nut butter or a drizzle of honey.

PASTA WITH JARRED TOMATO SAUCE

Combine your favorite pasta with jarred marinara (like Rao’s) and a sprinkle of Parmesan. For extra nutrition, try chickpea pasta for added iron.

SHORTCUT FRIED RICE

Scramble an egg in a pan, then stir in cooked rice and frozen peas. Add a splash of reduced-sodium soy sauce and serve with fruit like cherries or melon on the side.

FRUIT AND YOGURT DIP

Mix low-sugar vanilla yogurt with almond butter or honey for dipping. Serve with sliced fruit, graham crackers, or veggies like cucumber.

BEAN AND CHEESE QUESADILLAS

Spread cheese and beans on one side of a tortilla. Heat in a skillet for 2 minutes per side or microwave for 30 seconds. Pair with a side of fruit.

VEGGIE GRILLED CHEESE

Spread roasted, mashed sweet potato on bread, add cheese, and grill. Swap sweet potato for snipped spinach or kale, or skip the cheese for a sweet potato-only version.

CHEESE AND CRACKERS PLATE

Assemble a snack plate with whole-grain crackers, sliced cheese, veggies, fruit, and beans. Use a regular plate or a fun silicone muffin tray for variety.

EASY SPINACH PANCAKES

Blend eggs, spinach, and a banana, then cook into small pancakes. These are naturally sweet and quick to make.

CEREAL AND FRUIT

Serve cereal with milk and fruit for a simple dinner. This low-effort option is a hit with kids and a relief for busy parents.

BANANA “SUSHI”

Spread nut or seed butter on a soft tortilla, place a banana in the center, and roll it up. Slice into bite-sized spirals for a fun and easy meal.