Introduction

These Cookie Protein Balls are a delicious and nutritious snack perfect for a quick energy boost. With a delightful mix of toasted coconut, almond butter, and chocolate, they satisfy sweet cravings while providing protein and fiber.

Round energy balls are arranged on a dark grey fluted metal tray on a white marbled texture. Each ball has a base layer dipped in dark chocolate, a middle layer of light brown nutty texture with small bits, topped with a drizzle of dark chocolate and sprinkled with white toasted coconut flakes. Scattered chocolate chips and toasted coconut flakes surround the tray. In the foreground left, a white speckled bowl holds extra dark chocolate chips. A light beige fabric is softly draped in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/4 cup shredded coconut, plus 3 tablespoons (divided)
1/2 cup creamy almond butter
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
2 large soft medjool dates, pitted
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup old fashioned rolled oats
1 scoop vanilla protein powder (or unflavored)
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips
Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling on top
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1/2 teaspoon coconut oil

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the 1/4 cup of shredded coconut evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 5 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the coconut is lightly toasted. Remove and let cool.
Step 2: In a food processor, combine almond butter, maple syrup, pitted dates, vanilla extract, rolled oats, protein powder, and salt. Process until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Transfer the mixture to a small bowl. Stir in 1/4 cup of the toasted coconut, chia seeds, and mini chocolate chips. Using about 1 tablespoon of mixture per ball, form into small balls.
Step 4: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
Step 5: Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper.
Step 6: Dip the bottoms of each protein ball into the melted chocolate, then place them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle remaining chocolate over the tops, and immediately sprinkle with the remaining toasted coconut and a pinch of flaky sea salt.
Step 7: Refrigerate the balls for about 1 hour, or until the chocolate hardens. Enjoy as a tasty and energizing snack!

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
If you prefer, swap medjool dates with dried apricots or raisins, but rehydrate them briefly if they are very dry.
Use dark chocolate chips to reduce sweetness or white chocolate chips for a creamier taste.

Storage

Store cookie protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. To enjoy after freezing, thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. These are best eaten chilled to keep the chocolate coating firm.

How to Serve

The image shows several round energy bites arranged closely on a parchment-lined tray with a white marbled texture underneath. Each bite has a rough, grainy light brown base layer mixed with darker specks, likely chocolate or seeds. The bottom of some bites is coated with a smooth, glossy dark chocolate layer, and a dark chocolate drizzle is artfully scattered across the bites and the parchment. White and lightly toasted shredded coconut flakes are sprinkled on top of each bite, adding texture and contrast. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these protein balls without a food processor?

Yes, you can mash the dates and almond butter together and then mix in the dry ingredients by hand, but a food processor will yield a smoother and more evenly combined mixture.

What type of protein powder works best?

Vanilla protein powder adds a nice flavor, but you can use unflavored protein powder if preferred. Plant-based or whey protein powders work well, depending on your dietary needs.