Cookie Dough Protein Balls
These healthy Protein Cookie Dough Balls are soft, sweet, and ready in under 30 minutes! They are nutritious bite-sized treats that combine the yummy flavors of cookie dough with the benefits of protein-packed ingredients.
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Why we love this recipe
- Energy bites are portable and perfect to pack with you for a filling and healthy snack.
- There are no oats, oat flour, almond flour, or coconut flour. This recipe is completely gluten-free, and flourless!
- No-bake snacks like these are quick to whip up. Basically, stir, roll, chill, and enjoy. No need for turning on the oven.
- No special equipment like a food processor or blender is necessary.
- Who doesn’t love healthy chocolate chip cookie dough? Anyone? It tastes like dessert.
Ingredients
- vanilla protein powder – we recommend using a grass-fed whey protein powder as we find it gives you the best ‘cookie dough’ like texture and chewy consistency. If you prefer dairy-free there are some vegan products that work too – Ora So Lean So Clean has a nice plant-based protein powder that you could substitute.
- peanut butter – a fresh jar of natural peanut butter is the BEST. You need the oils from the freshly stirred jar for the mixture to really stick together and hold.
- pure maple syrup – you can also substitute honey or agave as the sweetener.
- chocolate chunks – substitute dark chocolate chips or even mini chocolate chips.
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- spatula for stirring – We love using a small spatula to stir. It cleanly scrapes the sides down and nothing gets left behind.
- cookie scoop – these are really useful for measuring so your balls are all even in size.
- baking tray – this is to place the balls on before popping them in the freezer
- parchment paper – use this to line the baking sheet so the balls don’t stick. We prefer unbleached parchment paper.
Instructions
Step 1
Start by lining a baking tray with parchment paper.
Step 2
Then, add the protein powder, maple syrup, and peanut butter to a large bowl.
Step 3
Next, using a spoon or spatula, blend the ingredients until a dough forms.
Step 4
Then, fold in the chocolate chunks.
As mentioned above you can also use chocolate chips if you prefer.
Step 5
Next, roll the dough mixture into heaping tablespoon-sized balls.
I use a small cookie scoop and then shape the balls with my hands. As you roll them out place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6
Lastly, pop the tray into the freezer to set.
Easy peasy! Once they firm you can store them in the refrigerator.
Expert tip
Not all protein powders are created equal! We use a whey protein powder for protein cookie dough balls. It provides an authentic cookie dough taste and texture and holds together the best.
Recipe variations
- If you prefer unsweetened protein powder, you could add a tbsp of vanilla extract.
- Make an almond joy variation by using almond butter and adding some shredded coconut and chopped almonds.
- Experiment with different nut butter and seed butter like cashew butter, almond butter, or tahini.
- Add a spoonful of chia seeds for some added plant protein. Try these Chocolate Chia Power Balls!
Serving suggestions
- Enjoy protein balls as a convenient and portable snack option when you’re on the move.
- Chop protein balls into smaller pieces and mix them with nuts, dried fruits, and seeds to create a homemade protein-packed trail mix.
- If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to satisfy your sweet tooth, protein balls can be a great option. Enjoy them as a guilt-free dessert substitute.
- Crumble or slice protein balls and use them as a delicious and protein-rich topping for smoothie bowls. They can add texture and flavor to your favorite smoothie bowl creations.
FAQS
Yes! They provide a good combination of protein and carbohydrates to help energize you before a workout or aid in muscle recovery afterward.
They can be a part of a balanced diet that supports weight loss. Protein balls are often higher in protein and healthier fats compared to traditional cookies, and they can help promote satiety and prevent excessive snacking.
Storage tips
Store these balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days.
More healthy energy ball recipes
**This recipe was originally posted on November 9, 2018, and updated on April 23rd, 2020, and again on July 10, 2023, with recipe notes, writing, and new photos.**
If you’ve tried our cookie dough protein bites, please rate the recipe and let me know how it turned out by leaving me a comment below. I’m always interested in feedback!
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Protein Cookie Dough Balls
Ingredients
- 1 cup vanilla protein powder **Not all protein powders absorb liquids the same – start with ¾ cup of protein powder and add more, a tablespoon at a time, if your mixture requires it**
- ½ cup natural peanut butter **Please use a drippy, natural variety for best results**
- ½ cup maple syrup
- ½ cup chocolate chunks
Instructions
- Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, stir all ingredients, except the chocolate chunks together until a dough forms.
- Add in the chocolate chunks and stir again.
- Roll into heaping tablespoon-sized balls and place them on the prepared tray. Freeze for 15 minutes.
