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Healthy Football Snack Mix with Protein Balls

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A perfect game day snack mix that combines crunchy almonds, salty pretzels, chewy protein balls, and dark chocolate chips for a satisfying, healthy treat that keeps you energized through the fourth quarter.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup rolled oats (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (mini chips work best)
  • 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • 1 cup raw almonds
  • 1 cup mini pretzels
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries or cherries
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt flakes

Instructions

  1. Make the protein balls first: In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup rolled oats, 1/4 cup ground flaxseed, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir together with a fork.
  2. Add 1/2 cup peanut butter, 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup), and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir with a rubber spatula until a thick, cohesive dough forms. If too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time; if too wet, add a tablespoon more oats.
  3. Gently fold in 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
  4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to chill the dough.
  5. Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form 12-14 evenly sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If dough gets sticky, return to fridge briefly.
  6. Refrigerate the baking sheet with protein balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  7. Assemble the snack mix: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast 1 cup raw almonds for 3-4 minutes, shaking frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden. Remove to a plate to cool.
  8. In the same skillet, toast 1/2 cup coconut flakes for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  9. In a large mixing bowl, combine toasted almonds, toasted coconut flakes, 1 cup mini pretzels, 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds, and 1/4 cup dried cranberries or cherries. Toss gently to combine.
  10. Gently fold the chilled protein balls into the snack mix, being careful not to break them.
  11. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon sea salt flakes over the top and give one final gentle mix. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve at room temperature.

Notes

For best results, don’t skip chilling the protein balls. Use room temperature peanut butter for easier mixing. Toasting nuts and coconut adds depth of flavor. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate in warm climates. Protein balls can be frozen separately for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: healthy snack mix, football snack, protein balls, game day snack, no-bake snack, gluten-free snack, vegetarian snack

Find it online: https://ovenmila.com/healthy-football-snack-mix-with-protein-balls/