Recipe: Salty Balls

by Dr. Stacy Sims

May 13, 2025

A portable, kid-friendly alternative to protein bars.

"I developed these as an alternative to protein bars because I didn't want sugar substitutes or the other nasties. They're easy to make, portable, and kid-friendly. They've been a staple for my family for over 14 years—and, of course, everyone loves the name!" —SS

Ingredients:

½ cup natural peanut butter (or any kind of nut butter)

⅓ cup brown rice syrup

½ tsp. vanilla

Dash of cinnamon

1 tsp. instant espresso (optional)

½ cup unflavored whey protein isolate

¼ cup crisped rice cereal or dry oatmeal

Sea salt

Instructions:

Servings: 10 | Prep Time: 10 minutes

Put the nut butter, brown rice syrup, vanilla, and cinnamon in a microwaveable bowl. Microwave for ~1 minute until the syrup is bubbly-hot. 

Stir to combine and add the whey protein, crisped rice cereal or oatmeal, and instant coffee (if using). 

Throw a sprinkle of salt on top and freeze until needed.

Variations:

Stir in ⅓ cup raisins or other small, dried fruit.

Use chocolate or vanilla protein powder.
Pat into an 8 x 8-inch pan and melt chocolate on top (or stir in mini chocolate chips) for a protein bar.

Nutritional Info (1 ball):

Calories: 132 kcal

Protein: 9g

Fat: 6.5g

Carbohydrates: 12.5g

Fiber: 1.25g

You can access a printable PDF version of this recipe here.

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