Description
Delicious Samoa Cookie Protein Balls inspired by the classic Samoa cookie flavor. These no-bake protein-packed energy balls combine toasted coconut, almond butter, dates, oats, vanilla protein powder, and rich chocolate. Perfect as a healthy snack or post-workout treat, they are coated with melted chocolate and sprinkled with toasted coconut and sea salt for a satisfying sweet and salty bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut, plus 3 tablespoons (divided)
- 1/2 cup creamy almond butter
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 large soft Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup old fashioned rolled oats
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (or unflavored)
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips
Chocolate Coating
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon coconut oil
Toppings
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling on top
Instructions
- Toast the Coconut: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread 1/4 cup of shredded coconut evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the coconut is lightly golden and toasted. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.
- Prepare the Base Mixture: In a food processor, combine the almond butter, maple syrup, pitted Medjool dates, vanilla extract, rolled oats, protein powder, and kosher salt. Process until all ingredients are well combined and form a sticky dough-like consistency.
- Mix in Additional Ingredients: Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Stir in 1/4 cup of the toasted coconut from step 1, chia seeds, and mini chocolate chips evenly into the dough.
- Form the Protein Balls: Using about 1 tablespoon of the mixture per ball, roll the mixture into small, uniform balls and set aside.
- Melt the Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Coat the Balls: Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper. Dip the bottom of each protein ball into the melted chocolate, then place them on the lined sheet. Drizzle any remaining chocolate over the tops of the balls, then immediately sprinkle with the remaining 3 tablespoons of toasted coconut and a pinch of flaky sea salt for extra flavor and texture.
- Set the Chocolate: Place the tray in the refrigerator for about 1 hour or until the chocolate hardens and the balls are firm.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once set, enjoy these Samoa Cookie Protein Balls as a nutritious snack or treat.
Notes
- Medjool dates are preferred for their softness and natural sweetness; ensure they are pitted before use.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking during baking and chocolate setting.
- Protein powder can be vanilla or unflavored depending on preference.
- Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For a vegan option, confirm that chocolate chips are dairy-free.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup or dates.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Samoa cookie protein balls, energy balls, healthy snacks, no-bake protein bites, almond butter protein balls, toasted coconut protein balls
