Fuel up post-workout or curb that sugar craving with these easy Prune Almond Protein Balls. Keep your kitchen stocked with a double batch! 109 calories and 3 Weight Watchers SP for 2 protein balls.
I had no idea these Prune Almond Protein Balls would be such a hit the first time I made them. But they mysteriously disappeared from the container in our fridge within a few days. Apparently, teenaged boys like energy bites as much as my husband and I do, even though they are convinced that prunes are meant to be shunned. Huh.
Since healthy snacks are always needed around here, I was thrilled that these protein bites were such a hit. And get these - you only need four ingredients (plus water) and about 15 minutes of active prep time to make a batch that will that the week.
How long will protein balls last?
If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they can last for 7 to 10 days. Keep the container tightly closed so that the bites don't dry out.
Can energy balls be frozen?
Yes! I make a double batch and freeze half. There are two ways to freeze the protein balls. One option is to place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze them, then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag.
Another way to freeze energy bites is by placing them in an airtight freezer container (such as these ones), dividing the rows with wax paper.
Whichever method you choose, you can either defrost the entire batch of protein balls at one time or just take out what you need. Defrost at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Tips for making these energy bites:
Start by soaking the raw almonds in some warm water for about 10 minutes. This will soften up the nuts, making them easier to blend with the prunes. The almonds will absorb most of the water, but pour any excess into the food processor along with the nuts.
Process the almonds along with the prunes, unsweetened cocoa powder and chocolate protein powder until the mixture forms a ball. Scrape down the sides as necessary. You'll find that the mixture will transform from a paste to a fairly cohesive ball very quickly, so keep an eye on it!
There are many different protein powders on the market, so be sure to read the labels to find what you want. I use a plant based powder - Vegan Made Simple Dark Chocolate Protein Powder (affiliate link) - which can be found online or in some health food or vitamin stores.
For portioning out the protein bites, I use a small cookie scoop, which makes the process a breeze! Use one that holds about 1 tablespoon of the mixture, such as this scoop (affiliate link).
Roll the balls with damp hands. This will stop the mixture from sticking to your hands and helps any loose bits stick to the rest of the mixture.
How healthy are protein balls?
That all depends on the ingredients you use. For example, protein balls sweetened with brown sugar can be considered less healthy than ones sweetened with prunes or dates.
For this protein ball recipe, the nutritional count works out like this: A serving of two protein balls contains 109 calories, 2.7 grams of fiber, 4.8 grams of protein, 12 grams of carbohydrates and only 0.5 grams of saturated fat.
Other healthy snack recipes:
Pineapple Spinach Smoothie {Cookin' Canuck}
No Bake Carrot Cake Granola Bites {Cookin' Canuck}
Tuna Salad Cucumber Cups {Peas & Crayons}
Healthy Homemade Low Carb Paleo Trail Mix {Wicked Spatula|
Prune Almond Protein Balls
Ingredients
- ¾ cup raw almonds
- ¼ cup warm water
- 3 ounces (about 14) pitted prunes
- ¼ cup chocolate protein powder (I used Vega Made Simple Dark Chocolate)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
- Combine the almonds and warm water in a bowl and allow the almonds to soak for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the almonds and water to the bowl of a food processor. Add the prunes, chocolate protein powder and cocoa powder.
- Puree, scraping down the sides as necessary, until the ingredients form a ball.
- Use a scant tablespoon for each ball, rolling each portion into a ball.
- Serve or refrigerate in a sealed container.
Notes
Nutrition
Disclosure: I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for me to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Peeyush
I tried last weekend and my son loved it. Protein Balls are not just tasty but healthy too. Thanks for sharing.