We know one thing for sure. You all love the high-protein energy bites we’ve been posting lately. The High Protein Monster Energy Bites are a staple in our house and one of the most popular recipes on the site so far in 2025. We also tossed a High Protein Sugar Cookie Energy Bites recipe in the mix to please those looking for a non-peanut butter energy bite and anyone who digs the classic sugar cookie flavor of almond and vanilla. So, why not throw a third high-protein energy bite combo into the mix?! We’re just trying to keep the people happy here. Okay, and I just really love this flavor combination, too.

The freeze-dried strawberries add an incredible pop of flavor and the best crunch, and they don’t add moisture, so these bites stay delicious in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks. You can always add your favorite dried fruit if you cannot find freeze-dried strawberries. But I highly recommend searching for the real deal as they make these bites something special. Also, try adding the leftover freeze-dried strawberries to a PB&J. Think of the crunch of adding potato chips to a sandwich but with a crazy strong strawberry flavor addition. 

The protein powder and powdered peanut butter give these energy bites high protein status. Each bite is delicious and pops nine grams of protein. If you want to use plant-based protein instead of whey, you may need to use less oats, as these protein powders absorb more liquid. They may be too dry to roll if you don’t adjust the dry ingredients.

This recipe was created as part of the Run Your Way Cooking Classes, sponsored by New Balance. If you want to view the cooking class where we make these energy bites for tips and tricks and help ensure yours comes out just right, click here to watch. 

Strawberry Peanut Butter High Protein Energy Bites

Servings 18 bites

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup honey
  • ½ cup peanut butter
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup peanut butter powder
  • ½ cup whey protein powder unflavored
  • ½ cup quick oats
  • ½ cup freeze dried strawberries broken up a little

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, mix together honey, peanut butter and vanilla extract.
  • Add peanut butter powder and whey protein powder. Mix well.
  • Add oats and freeze dried strawberries. Mix well. You may need to mix with clean hands.
  • Roll into 18 balls. If your protein balls are too soft, refrigerate for the perfect texture.

Notes

Nutrition Facts:
1 protein ball: 125 kcal | 4 g fat | 14 g carb | 2 g fiber | 9 g pro
How-to-Use:
Athletes: Grab a couple of bites for a fast, filling snack throughout your busy days.
Healthy Eating: A balanced snack with carbs, protein, and fat helps us stay fuller for longer. Try 1 - 2 bites as a snack between meals or for a bite of something sweet at night. 
Kids: My kids still prefer energy bites with chocolate but the crunch of the freeze dried strawberries is pretty legit too. 
Substitutions:
Whey protein: you can use flavored whey protein or try plant based protein, they may change the flavor & texture. Plant based protein may require fewer oats, start with less and add to desired texture.
Peanut butter & powder: you can sub almond butter & almond butter powder if there is a peanut allergy.
Freeze dried strawberries: can’t find them? You can always add any flavor chocolate chip or other dried fruit. You may need more oats for the right texture + start with ¼ cup add ins.