Birthday Cake Protein Balls

These Birthday Cake Protein Balls are the perfect blend of fun and nutrition, making them a favorite quick snack or post-workout bite. They bring all the joy of birthday cake flavor without the guilt, packing protein and wholesome ingredients into every colorful, chewy bite.

I first made these for a friend’s birthday gathering, and they disappeared so fast that I knew I had a new staple snack for both celebrations and busy weekdays.

Ingredients

• One cup vanilla protein powder: the base for tasty nutrition& choose whey or plant-based based on preference
• One cup oat flour: adds natural mild sweetness and fiber& swap almond flour for grain-free options
• Half a cup cashew or almond butter: brings creaminess and healthy fats& sunflower butter works well if avoiding nuts
• Quarter cup honey or maple syrup: natural sweetener that binds the dough& maple syrup keeps it vegan
• One teaspoon vanilla extract: essential for capturing that classic birthday cake flavor
• Half teaspoon almond extract: adds a subtle bakery aroma that makes these truly special
• Half cup rainbow sprinkles: for burst of cheerful color& select naturally colored or vegan sprinkles if desired
• A pinch of salt: balances sweetness perfectly
• Three to four tablespoons milk of choice: makes dough soft and workable& any plant or dairy milk will do

Instructions

Sift and Combine the Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together vanilla protein powder, oat flour, and salt until smooth and without lumps. This ensures an even texture throughout every bite.

Incorporate the Creamy and Sweet Elements:

Mix in your chosen nut or seed butter along with the honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Stir the mixture until it thickens into a dough that holds together nicely.

Adjust the Dough Consistency:

Slowly add milk one tablespoon at a time, stirring constantly. Your goal is a dough that is soft, slightly tacky, but not sticky, making it perfect for rolling.

Fold in the Fun Colors:

Gently stir in the rainbow sprinkles with care not to overmix so the colors remain vibrant in the final balls.

Shape the Protein Balls:

Using about one tablespoon of dough at a time, roll between your palms into balls. Place them on a plate lined with parchment paper to keep them from sticking.

Chill to Set:

Refrigerate the shaped balls for at least 30 minutes so they firm up and hold their shape perfectly when eaten.

Serve and Enjoy:

These bites are great straight from the fridge, no utensils needed, making them perfect for snacking on the go or packing in lunchboxes.

I adore the almond extract—it really elevates the familiar vanilla flavor to one that truly mimics classic birthday cake. Making these with my kids has become a fun tradition& they love rolling the dough and choosing sprinkle colors.

Storage Tips

Store these protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they stay fresh for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to three months and thaw in the fridge before eating.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a grain-free version, almond flour is a simple swap for oat flour. Sunflower seed butter is a wonderful alternative for anyone with nut allergies. Maple syrup makes this snack entirely vegan while honey adds a richer sweetness if vegan is not required.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these protein balls with a glass of cold almond milk or your favorite smoothie for a well-rounded snack. They also make a fun, colorful addition to a party platter or lunchbox treat.

These protein balls are a delightful and nutritious snack that fits many dietary needs without compromising on fun or flavor. Enjoy creating and sharing this tasty treat with loved ones!

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can I substitute oat flour with another flour?

Yes, almond flour is a great alternative for a grain-free option without compromising texture.

→ What types of nut butter work best in this mix?

Cashew and almond butter provide creamy richness, but sunflower butter is suitable for nut-free diets.

→ How do vanilla and almond extracts affect the flavor?

They introduce a delicate bakery aroma and enhance the sweet, authentic birthday cake taste.

→ Is it necessary to refrigerate the balls before serving?

Chilling firms up the texture, making them easier to handle and enhancing the overall bite.

→ Can I use plant-based protein powder instead of whey?

Absolutely, plant-based protein powders work well and keep the snack suitable for vegan preferences.

→ How do I keep the sprinkles vibrant when mixing?

Gently fold the sprinkles into the dough at the end to maintain their bright colors and prevent fading.