Name: Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Paleo
Ingredients: 1 cup Medjool dates (about 13 dates); 1/3 cup sunflower seed butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/3 cup protein powder*; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; pinch of salt; 1/2 cup dark chocolate; 1/2 tsp coconut oil

Jump to Recipe

Imagine taking a bite of something utterly decadent, yet totally nourishing: that’s the magic of these Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo). Little chewy morsels made with real food ingredients, they strike a perfect balance between indulgence and health. Each bite is packed with gooey dates, rich cocoa, a kiss of vanilla, and blanketed in a thin layer of dark chocolate. They’re as easy to whip up as they are to devour, and perfect for a lunchbox treat, post-workout snack, or dessert that actually makes you feel good.

Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) is in the simplicity of their ingredients. Each one has a special job—some bind, some sweeten, some boost protein, and others finish things off with a hit of chocolatey goodness. Here’s what you’ll need and why each ingredient earns its place in the recipe.

Medjool dates: Nature’s chewy caramel, they sweeten and create the fudgy base for the bites.
Sunflower seed butter: A creamy, nut-free choice that gives richness without overpowering flavor.
Vanilla extract: Adds a beautiful depth and warmth, bringing out the cocoa’s flavor.
Protein powder: Pumps up the bites with staying power for snacks that satisfy; use your favorite gluten free, paleo-friendly brand.
Cocoa powder: Delivers that intense brownie flavor and the color we all crave.
Pinch of salt: Just a tiny bit sharpens all the other flavors and keeps things from tasting flat.
Dark chocolate: For an optional (but highly recommended) dip that adds crunch and even more chocolate punch.
Coconut oil: Helps the chocolate melt and set with a gorgeous sheen—no clumpy coatings here!

How to Make Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo)

Step 1: Soften the Medjool Dates

Start by removing the pits from your dates, if they have them. Soak them in a bowl of hot water for about 5 minutes—this tiny step is a game changer for texture, making the dates blendable and yielding a delightfully chewy bite.

Step 2: Blend the Base

Drain your softened dates and transfer them to a food processor, along with the sunflower seed butter and vanilla extract. Blend them up; you’re looking for a thick, sticky, caramel-like mixture. Scrape down the sides if needed to ensure everything combines evenly.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Add your protein powder, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt to the food processor. Give it another blend until the mixture forms a thick dough. If it clings together like brownie batter, you’re on track.

Step 4: Shape into Bites

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them in your hands to form balls. Take your time—this is where you get those signature Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) shape and that irresistible hand-rolled look.

Step 5: Chill the Bites

If you want to dip your bites in chocolate, set them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes. Chilling ensures the chocolate coating will set quickly and smoothly.

Step 6: Melt the Chocolate

Combine the dark chocolate and coconut oil in a small microwave-safe bowl. Melt in 20 to 30 second intervals, stirring in between—smooth, glossy chocolate is what you’re after here, not scorched bits!

Step 7: Dip and Set

Working one at a time, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate. Let the excess drip off, then return to the lined baking sheet. The chilled bites help the coating firm up quickly, giving your Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) those spectacular chocolate shells.

How to Serve Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo)

Garnishes

Dress up your Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt atop the melted chocolate, shredded coconut, or even a dusting of extra cocoa powder. Each little garnish adds visual appeal and a pop of flavor, making these bites look as wonderful as they taste.

Side Dishes

Serve these alongside a steaming cup of coffee or your favorite herbal tea for a cozy, mid-afternoon snack. They’re lovely with a small plate of cut fruit, like berries or sliced oranges, to balance out the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile your Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) into a mason jar tied with a ribbon for a sweet homemade gift, or stack them pyramid-style for an eye-catching party platter. You could even skewer them onto toothpicks for the ultimate bite-sized party treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any leftover Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) into an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to one week. They stay soft and chewy, and the chocolate coating stays satisfyingly snappy.

Freezing

These bites freeze beautifully! Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months. Simply thaw at room temperature or in your fridge for a quick, ready-when-you-are snack.

Reheating

No reheating is needed—just let them come to room temperature if frozen, or enjoy straight from the fridge if you like them a bit firmer. They’re meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temp for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut or seed butter?

Absolutely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or even peanut butter (if you’re not paleo) all work well and add their own delicious twist to the Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo).

What protein powder should I use?

Use your favorite gluten free, paleo-friendly protein powder. Collagen peptides or plant-based proteins are great choices, just be mindful of flavor and texture—unflavored or chocolate versions blend in seamlessly.

How do I make these sweeter or less sweet?

For more sweetness, toss in an extra date or a splash of pure maple syrup. To tone it down, opt for extra-dark chocolate in the coating and check that your protein powder isn’t too sweet on its own.

Do I have to dip them in chocolate?

Nope! The bites are delicious even without the chocolate shell. The coating adds a satisfying crunch and looks gorgeous, but feel free to enjoy them plain for a simpler snack.

Can kids eat these?

Definitely. These Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) are a wholesome treat for kids and adults alike. Just be sure to select a protein powder that’s appropriate for little ones if you’re sharing!

Final Thoughts

I’m genuinely excited for you to give these Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) a try. They’re such a joyful little treat—simple to make, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. I hope they bring as much delight to your kitchen as they do in mine!

Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 16 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 bites 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Brownie Protein Bites are a delicious, guilt-free treat that are gluten-free and paleo-friendly. Made with wholesome ingredients, these bites are perfect for a quick energy boost or a satisfying dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling:

1 cup Medjool dates (about 13 dates)
1/3 cup sunflower seed butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/3 cup protein powder*
1/4 cup cocoa powder
pinch of salt

Coating:

1/2 cup dark chocolate
1/2 tsp coconut oil

Instructions

Soften Dates: Remove the pits from your dates and soak them in hot water for 5 minutes.

(This softens them, making them easier to blend and giving the filling a chewier texture.)

Blend: Drain the water from the dates, then place them in your food processor with the sunflower seed butter and vanilla. Blend until the mixture looks like a thick, sticky caramel.
Add Ingredients: Add in the remaining filling ingredients. Blend, stopping to scrape down the sides if needed.
Form Balls: Scoop the dough for the filling and roll into balls, each about one tablespoon in size.
Chill: You can eat the balls as-is, or chill them and then dip them in dark chocolate. To chill them, place the balls on a lined baking sheet and pop them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes.
Melt Chocolate: Once the balls are chilled, melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil. Place the chocolate and coconut oil in a small microwavable dish and melt on high heat at 20-30 second intervals, stirring in-between.
Dip Balls: Dip the balls, one at a time into the melted chocolate and place them back on the lined baking sheet to set.

Notes

You can customize these bites by adding chopped nuts or shredded coconut to the filling mixture.
Store the bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Mixing, Blending, Rolling
Cuisine: Paleo