Who invented the protein ball and when is a mystery, but in my mind they became popular around the time of the paleo and raw food movements. All of a sudden there were big jars at cafe counters offering plant-based, grain-free snacks in loads of different flavours and then the recipes soon followed. 

Our super popular healthy protein balls (over 100 five-star ratings and counting!) have a deep molasses-y taste from the dates and the combination of coconut and cacao gives off lamington vibes. And one of the best things about these power snacks, despite being moreish, because they are so filling, you can stop at one!

Why we love these healthy protein balls

A great source of protein as well as fibre and healthy fats, our no-bake snacks are ideal for an energy boost either pre or post workout or just to combat those afternoon food cravings. And, aside from soaking and resting time, they have minimum prepping. By using dates- not honey - as a sweetener they are also vegan friendly. Check out some other protein ball recipes. 

What goes into these tasty bliss balls? 

• Dates: we use Medjool dates which are a fresh version of the more common dried version. With a deep nearly caramel flavour they make an excellent natural sweetener. Find them in the refrigerated fruit section of the supermarket.
• Almond meal: Adds fibre to protein balls as well as working as a flour replacement helping to bind the mixture.
• Coconut: Is rich in healthy fats as well as fibre. To get extra life out of shredded coconut, store in an airtight container in the fridge to prevent the oils from going rancid.
• Coconut oil: While there are many differing opinions regarding the benefits of coconut oil, it does add fat which helps curb hunger
• Cacao powder: Not only gives the chocolate-y flavour to these easy protein balls, it contains antioxidants and has anti inflammatory properties. 
• Chia seeds: Add protein, fibre and omega-3 fatty acids.

Ingredients (7)

• 12 Medjool dates

• 1 cup almond meal

• 1/2 cup Coles Shredded Coconut

• 1/3 cup coconut oil

• 1/3 cup cacao powder

• 1 tbsp chia seeds

• 1/3 cup extra Coles Shredded Coconut for rolling

Method

Step 1

Place dates in a medium bowl and cover with water. Stand for 1 hour. Drain and discard seeds.

Step 2

Process dates, almond meal, shredded coconut, coconut oil, cacao powder and chia seeds until mixture comes together. Transfer to a bowl and stand for 20 minutes for chia seeds to soften.

Step 3

Place the coconut in a shallow dish.

Step 4

Roll level tablespoons of mixture into balls. Roll in the coconut to coat.

Recipe notes

Why did my protein balls not hold together?
Make sure you let the dates soak for the full hour so they are super soft and able to be blended with the remaining ingredients. Then allow the mixture to sit for 20 minutes. This is when the chia seeds become hydrated and create a gel-like consistency that’s important for the balls to hold together.

What’s the difference between cacao and cocoa?
Cacao is what cocoa starts out to be. When the fruit of the cacao tree is harvested it undergoes a process that involves fermenting the beans to get rid of bitterness. They are then dried, roasted and ground to a paste to become cocoa butter. When the liquid is removed its cocoa powder. Cacao powder, however, is ground before the roasting stage and as roasting kills off a lot of the nutrients is a healthier option, but with a more bitter flavour. 

Are protein balls good for weight loss?
These protein balls are great at smashing hunger pangs and will keep feeling full for longer than processed food snacks. At just under 200 calories per serve, they can be eaten in a calorie controlled diet, but make sure you don’t consume too many as the calories will creep up.

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