Almond Butter Protein Balls Recipe
These Almond Butter Protein Balls are a quick and nutritious snack packed with natural ingredients like dates, almond butter, oats, and protein powder. Easy to prepare in just 20 minutes, they make a perfect on-the-go energy boost or post-workout treat with a delicious blend of flavors and textures, including a hint of vanilla and cinnamon and the crunch of mini chocolate chips.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 protein balls
- Category: Snacks
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 5-6 whole Deglet Noor dates (1.7 oz), pits removed
- ⅔ cup natural almond butter, a loose, drizzly consistency works best
- ¾ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ¼ cup vanilla protein powder
- ½ cup unsweetened coconut flakes (30 grams)
Flavor Enhancers
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Add-ins
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Soften the Dates: Place dates in a small glass bowl or measuring cup and cover with enough water. Microwave for 30 seconds to heat the water, then let the dates soak for 2-4 minutes until softened.
- Adjust Almond Butter Consistency: If your almond butter is not smooth and drizzly, place it in a small microwavable bowl and heat in 10-second increments, stirring each time, until it reaches a drizzly consistency. Alternatively, heat gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring constantly.
- Drain Dates: Remove the dates from the water and gently squeeze out any excess liquid to avoid making the mixture too wet.
- Process Ingredients: In the bowl of a food processor, combine the softened dates, drizzled almond butter, rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, coconut flakes, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Pulse and process for about 30 seconds until the mixture sticks together when pressed between your fingers. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even mixing.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the mini chocolate chips by hand so they remain intact in the balls.
- Form the Balls: Using a spoon or spatula, scoop out 1½ to 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it between your palms into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used, creating approximately 16 protein balls.
- Store Properly: Place the protein balls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months for longer storage.
Notes
- If your almond butter is naturally smooth and drizzly, you can skip the heating step.
- Ensure dates are well drained to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet.
- You can substitute vanilla protein powder with any protein powder flavor of your choice, but vanilla complements the flavor best.
- These protein balls can be customized by adding nuts, seeds, or dried fruits as preferred.
- For vegan options, ensure the protein powder and chocolate chips are vegan-friendly.
Find it online: https://simpleplatter.com/almond-butter-protein-balls-recipe/
