No-Bake Sunflower Seed Protein Energy Balls with Banana
These portable protein-packed energy balls combine creamy sunflower seed butter with mashed banana and whey protein for a satisfying snack. The natural sweetness from honey or maple syrup balances the earthy sunflower flavors, while coconut flour provides structure and cinnamon adds warmth. Studded with crunchy toasted sunflower seeds and tart dried cranberries, these no-bake treats are perfect for post-workout fuel or afternoon pick-me-ups. The simple food processor method makes them quick to prepare, and they freeze beautifully for grab-and-go convenience.
Ingredients
- 1 very ripe banana, mashed
- ½ cup sunflower seed butter, such as sunbutter preferably organicalmond butter1:1nut
similar texture
- ¼ cup honey or pure maple syrup, dark or amber
- 4 scoops unflavored whey protein powderplant-based protein powder1:1vegandairy-free
may affect texture slightly
- 3 tablespoons coconut flour
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 pinch salt
- ½ cup toasted unsalted sunflower seeds
- ½ cup dried cranberries, preferably fruit juice sweetened
Instructions
- 1
Combine banana, sunflower seed butter and honey or maple syrup in a food processor fitted with steel blade attachment and process to combine
- 2
Add whey protein powder, coconut flour, cinnamon and salt and process until it forms a dense paste
- 3
Add sunflower seeds and cranberries and pulse until incorporated
- 4
Roll mixture into 24 balls, about 1 1/2 tablespoons each
- 5
Freeze in a re-sealable bag up to 1 month and defrost at room temperature before eating
Tips
Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for natural sweetness and easier mashing
Chill the mixture for 15-20 minutes before rolling if it's too sticky to handle
Store extra balls in the refrigerator for up to one week for immediate snacking
Good to Know
Store in refrigerator up to 1 week or freeze up to 1 month in re-sealable bag
Can be made up to 1 week ahead and stored in refrigerator
Serve at room temperature after defrosting if frozen
Common Mistakes
Don't skip chilling if mixture is too sticky to roll into balls
Avoid over-processing after adding seeds and cranberries to prevent them from breaking down
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
may affect texture slightly
Vegan Options
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make these without protein powder?
Yes, but increase coconut flour to 1/2 cup and add 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed for binding. The protein content will be lower.
What if I don't have sunflower seed butter?
Any nut or seed butter works well. Almond, peanut, or tahini are good alternatives that will change the flavor slightly.
How long do these keep frozen?
They maintain best quality for 1 month in the freezer. Thaw individual balls at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before eating.