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Vanilla Chia Protein Balls

Vanilla Chia Protein Balls

Vanilla Chia Protein Balls are your new favorite no-bake treat, perfect for a quick energy boost or a healthy snack that tastes like dessert. This incredibly simple recipe delivers delicious, satisfying bites packed with wholesome ingredients.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 balls
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Healthy
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup rolled oats gluten-free if needed
  • 1/2 cup smooth almond butter or any nut/seed butter of your choice
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup for a vegan option
  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla protein powder vanilla bean flavor is excellent
  • 1-2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk or milk of choice, as needed
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt optional, but enhances flavor
  • 2 tablespoons shredded unsweetened coconut for rolling, optional
  • 1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips optional, for added texture

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon or Spatula
  • Shallow Dish (optional)
  • Plate or Baking Sheet
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, chia seeds, vanilla protein powder, and sea salt (if using). Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well combined. This ensures that the protein powder and chia seeds are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
    1 cup rolled oats, 2 tablespoons chia seeds, 1 tablespoon vanilla protein powder, 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  2. To the bowl with the dry ingredients, add the almond butter and honey (or maple syrup). Start by mixing these ingredients with a sturdy spoon or a spatula until they begin to come together. The mixture will likely be quite thick and sticky at this stage.
    1/2 cup smooth almond butter, 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  3. If the mixture is too dry and crumbly to roll into balls (this can happen depending on the thickness of your nut butter and the type of oats used), add the unsweetened almond milk one tablespoon at a time. Stir well after each addition until the mixture reaches a consistency that holds together when pressed between your fingers but isn't overly wet or sticky. You might not need the full two tablespoons.
    1-2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk
  4. If you're using mini chocolate chips, gently fold them into the mixture now. Be careful not to overmix, as you don't want to break the chocolate chips.
    1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips
  5. Once the mixture has the correct consistency, it's time to roll. Scoop about one tablespoon of the mixture at a time and roll it firmly between your palms to form a compact ball. If the mixture is sticking to your hands, you can lightly dampen them with water or a tiny bit of oil.
  6. If you desire an extra layer of flavor and texture, place the shredded unsweetened coconut in a shallow dish. Roll each formed protein ball in the coconut until it's evenly coated.
    2 tablespoons shredded unsweetened coconut
  7. Place the finished Vanilla Chia Protein Balls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up. This step is crucial for them to hold their shape properly.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months.