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Almond Butter Protein Balls

These almond protein balls are a perfect no-bake healthy dessert! Ready to eat in just a couple of hours, high in protein, healthy, and kid-approved!

These almond protein balls are vegetarian, gluten-free, high protein, and with a few adjustments, could even be turned vegan!

three almond butter balls

Do you remember how tasty oatmeal chocolate chip cookies were as a kid? Do you remember sneaking some of that cookie dough as well?

These almond butter protein balls are the next best thing. They have all the same flavors and are packed with protein.

They also really taste like oatmeal chocolate chip cookie dough. All of that delicious flavor without the guilt.

Each ball has 4.4 grams of protein. Which is exactly the reason why they’re a good addition to your high protein diet.

plate of protein balls

Almond butter, chocolate chips, and coconut flakes make these balls incredibly delicious. They are only sweetened naturally with pure maple syrup.

They contain no refined sugars and no flour. These protein balls are also gluten and dairy-free.

halved almond butter ball

Why You Should Make These Almond Protein Balls

You should make these balls because they have extremely nutritious ingredients. These ingredients are packed with plenty of protein, fiber, and other nutritients.

Most of the ingredients for these balls are probably already in your pantry. If not, they are easy to find!

One of them is almond butter which is a great source of proteins and fats. Additionally, it’s low in carbs. Use a smooth almond butter like this.

Oats provide additional protein and fiber. It’s an ingredient that’s rich in antioxidants which are important for our immune system and general health.

Shredded coconut, dark chocolate chips, and maple syrup add sweetness without using refined sugar. Try to use pure maple syrup. You can get it here.

Some bottles of maple syrup you might find are not real maple syrup at all. They are made with high fructose corn syrup.

We don’t want that. Be sure to check the label for ingredients.

It’s also important to use unsweetened coconut flakes. The protein balls are going to taste just as delicious with that added sugar.

almond butter protein balls

These protein bites are chewy, delicious balls made with natural, whole foods. There really isn’t a better snack to choose.

You can enjoy them with breakfast alongside a cup of coffee. Adding one to your lunch is another great way to add something sweet.

They can also be a great morning or afternoon snack. Put a few in a small bag and grab them on your way out the door.

To increase the protein contents in this treat use protein powder. It also adds to their deliciousness and nutritional value. You want to find a protein powder that is plant-based.

 

This vanilla protein powder works really well in this recipe. The added vanilla flavor really makes a difference.

How to Make Almond Protein Balls

protein ball ingredients with chocolate chips

This recipe is very simple. You just need to gather your ingredients first.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • almond butter
  • rolled oats
  • vanilla protein powder (or any other)
  • unsweetened shredded coconut
  • maple syrup
  • dark chocolate chips

Step-by-step Instructions

Combine all ingredients into a medium bowl. You can use a wooden spoon, spatula, or even your hands.

Tip: To avoid a sticky mess, rub a small amount of coconut oil on your hands prior to mixing.

mixed protein ball dough

Roll the mixture into small 1-1 1/2” balls. Again, you can use your hands here.

Don’t forget the coconut oil trick if you want to keep your hands clean!

You may also use a small cookie scoop like this for evenly shaped balls. It’s still best to roll with your hands, but this will create even proportions.

bowl of almond butter balls

Place the protein balls on a large plate or small baking tray. It’s best to line the plate with parchment paper, so the balls don’t stick.

Chill the protein balls in the refrigerator for about 2 hours. This will allow the bites to set up and solidify.

The balls will likely crumble if you eat them before chilling. It’s worth the wait!

plate of protein balls

Are Proteins Balls Good for You?

three almond butter balls infront of plate

These protein balls are very good for you. They are made with whole foods that fuel and nourish your body.

None of the ingredients are processed or have any artificial ingredients.

They will fill you up and keep you satisfied. They’re a good source of protein and great if you’re on a high protein diet.

Additionally, this no-bake dessert is high in fiber, potassium, and calcium. Each ball is less than 130 calories.

This makes them a much better snack choice than a cookie or a candy bar.

holding energy balls

Is Almond Butter Healthier Than Peanut Butter?

Both almond butter and peanut butter are great nut butter options. But which one is healthier?

Firstly, both kinds of butter have about the same number of calories. One tablespoon of almond butter is 98 calories, while one tablespoon of peanut butter is 96 calories.

However, almond butter has twice the amount of fiber. This is what’s going to help you stay full.

Almond butter also has less saturated fats. It also has more unsaturated fats (the good kind!).

Almond butter contains half the amount of sugar than peanut butter. Almond butter can also provide the body with essential minerals that peanut butter cannot.

Those minerals are magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and calcium. Both nut kinds of butter are a good source of Vitamin E.

Small note, peanuts are considered legumes. If you are avoiding legumes, you should also avoid peanut butter.

Medical News Today provides a great article going into further details between the two.

energy bites on plate

Any nut butter would work fine with this recipe. However, almond butter works best with this recipe.

Almond flavor is perfect for this no-bake dessert, anyway!

Almond Butter energy bites pinterest

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Watch Full Instructions

almond butter protein balls

Almond Butter Protein Balls (No Bake)

These almond butter protein balls are a perfect no-bake dessert that will give you the energy you need. Sweet, flavorful, high in protein, and vegan-friendly when made with vegan chocolate chips!
4.41 from 10 votes
Prep Time 5 minutes
Additional Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Course High Protein
Cuisine American
Servings 20 protein balls
Calories 121 kcal

Ingredients
  

Instructions
 

  • Mix the ingredients in a large bowl.
  • Roll the mixture into balls that are around 1-1.5 inches long.
  • Store in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.
RECIPE VIDEO

Nutrition

Serving: 1protein ballCalories: 121kcalCarbohydrates: 9.1gProtein: 4.4gFat: 8.1gSaturated Fat: 1.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6.1gCholesterol: 0.4mgSodium: 7.6mgFiber: 1.9gSugar: 4.4g
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