Servings: 16 protein balls 1x
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)
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Place dates in a small glass bowl or measuring cup. Add enough water to cover the dates. Microwave for 30 seconds to heat water, then let the dates soak until softened, 2-4 minutes.
- Optional step if almond butter is not a smooth and drizzly consistency: To a small microwavable bowl, add the almond butter. Microwave in 10-second increments, stirring after each one, until the almond butter is of drizzly consistency. May also heat the almond butter this on the stovetop in a small pot over low heat, stirring constantly until drizzly.
- Remove the dates from the water and gently squeeze them to release any water.
- To the bowl of a food processor, add the dates, drizzle almond butter, oats, protein powder, coconut flakes, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Process until the mixture sticks together when pressed between fingers, about 30 seconds. Scrape down sides as needed. (See Notes)
- Using a spoon or spatula, stir in the chocolate chips by hand.
- Scoop the mixture in 1 ½- to 2-tablespoon-size amounts and roll into a ball. Continue until all dough is used up. Makes 16 energy bites.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for 3 months.
Notes
- If the mixture is too dry and won’t hold together, add 1 tablespoon of water a time, then process again, until the right sticky consistency is reached. If the mixture is too wet, add 1 tablespoon of oats, then process again, until the right consistency is reached.
- I like the 365 Creamy Almond Butter from Whole Foods, the Kirkland Creamy Almond Butter from Costco, and the Creamy Almond Butter from Trader Joes.
- For dairy-free, use dairy-free mini chocolate chips, such as Enjoy Life brand.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 130
- Fat: 8 g
- (Sat Fat: 3 g)
- Sodium: 29 mg
- Carbohydrate: 20 g
- (Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 4 g)
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 3 mg