Healthy Dark Chocolate Almond Protein Energy Balls
These no-bake energy balls combine dark chocolate, almonds, and protein powder for a quick, nourishing, and delicious snack perfect for busy days or on-the-go energy boosts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20 energy balls 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup almond butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (gluten-free if preferred)
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher)
- ½ cup vanilla protein powder (plant-based or whey)
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- ½ cup chopped almonds
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
- A pinch of sea salt
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and measure them out.
- In a mixing bowl, combine almond butter and honey or maple syrup. Stir until creamy and well blended, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add oats, protein powder, chopped almonds, ground flaxseed, sea salt, and cinnamon. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine until the mixture is sticky and holds together when pressed.
- Fold in dark chocolate chips gently to avoid breaking them.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of mixture per ball and roll between palms to form compact, round balls. If mixture is too sticky, refrigerate for 10 minutes and try again.
- Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
- Store energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
If mixture is too sticky, chill before rolling. Use fresh almond butter for best texture. Protein powder choice affects flavor and texture. Can substitute sunflower seed butter and maple syrup for vegan and nut-free version. Rolling hands can be moistened or dusted with oat flour to prevent sticking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 energy ball
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 50
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 1.5
- Carbohydrates: 9
- Fiber: 2.5
- Protein: 6
Keywords: energy balls, no-bake snack, healthy snack, dark chocolate, almond, protein, quick snack, gluten-free, vegan option