Description
These Snickers Protein Balls are a delicious and nutritious no-bake snack combining creamy peanut butter, sweet medjool dates, protein powder, and a chocolate coating. Perfect for an energy boost or a satisfying treat, they capture the flavor profile of Snickers bars with wholesome ingredients and a hint of sea salt.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Mixture
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 6 large soft medjool dates, pitted
- 1/4 cup old fashioned rolled oats
- 1/4 cup peanuts
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (or unflavored)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Chocolate Coating
- 3/4 cup chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped peanuts
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the protein ball mixture: In a food processor, combine the peanut butter, pitted dates, rolled oats, peanuts, protein powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Process the mixture until well combined and sticky enough to form balls.
- Form balls: Using about 1 tablespoon per ball, roll the mixture into small balls and set aside.
- Melt chocolate coating: In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Dip and coat: Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper. Dip each protein ball into the melted chocolate, fully coating it, then place it on the prepared parchment-lined tray.
- Add toppings: Immediately sprinkle the tops of the chocolate-coated balls with chopped peanuts and flaky sea salt for added texture and flavor.
- Chill until set: Refrigerate the balls for about 1 hour or until the chocolate hardens. Alternatively, place them in the freezer for 15 minutes to speed up the process.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the chocolate coating is firm, your Snickers Protein Balls are ready to enjoy as a protein-packed snack.
Notes
- You can substitute the protein powder with any flavor you prefer, but vanilla works best to complement the peanut butter and chocolate.
- Make sure the dates are soft for easier processing; if dry, soak them briefly in warm water and drain.
- Use gluten-free oats if needed to make this recipe gluten-free.
- The peanut butter should be creamy for the best texture and consistency.
- Store these protein balls in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for longer storage.
- Adjust the amount of flaky sea salt topping to your taste preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: snickers protein balls, peanut butter snack, no-bake protein balls, healthy chocolate snack, energy bites, protein-packed snack
