Chocolate Protein Balls

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5 from 39 votes

Prep Time20

Total Time20

Servings: balls

Calories: 109kcal

Ingredients

⅔ cup nut butter of choice
⅓ cup maple syrup or honey
½ cup protein powder I use a combination of pea protein isolate and brown rice protein; see notes for another protein powder
⅓ cup cocoa powder
¼ teaspoon espresso powder optional
¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
2 tablespoon water plus additional as needed
¼ cup cocoa nibs (optional) or another add in such as dark chocolate chips, chopped nuts or coconut flakes

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the nut butter and maple syrup.
Stir in the protein powder, cocoa, espresso powder and salt along with 2 tablespoons of water. Mix until well combined, adding more water 1 teaspoon at a time, as needed. The mixture should resemble play-dough in consistency.
Stir in the cacao nibs or another add-in if using.
Line a dish with a silicone mat, parchment paper, or wax paper. Scoop a tablespoon of the mixture, roll it into a ball and set it in the dish. Repeat with the remaining mixture (it should make about 16).
Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for later.

Notes

Leftovers

Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.

Protein Powder

Plant-based protein powders (like pea and rice) absorb more moisture than animal-based proteins so if you use an animal-based protein (such as whey or casein), don't add any water to start. If the dough is still too thin, you can add 1-2 tablespoon of ground flaxseed.

If you use a flavored protein powder, ensure that it complements the flavor of the balls (such as chocolate). You may need to adjust the sweetener if your powder is sweet.

*Nutrition estimate calculated based on using half pea protein isolate and half brown rice protein.

Nutrition