Description
These Brownie Protein Bites are a delicious and nutritious gluten-free and paleo-friendly snack, perfect for a quick energy boost. Made from Medjool dates, sunflower seed butter, protein powder, and rich dark chocolate, these bite-sized treats combine natural sweetness with protein and healthy fats. They require no baking and can be enjoyed as a quick, wholesome snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Filling Ingredients
- 1 cup Medjool dates (about 13 dates), pitted
- 1/3 cup sunflower seed butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup protein powder (preferably paleo-friendly)
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- Pinch of salt
Coating Ingredients
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate
- 1/2 tsp coconut oil
Instructions
- Soften the Dates: Remove the pits from your Medjool dates and soak them in hot water for 5 minutes. This softens the dates, making them easier to blend and providing a chewy texture for the filling.
- Blend Initial Filling: Drain the water from the dates, then place the dates in your food processor along with the sunflower seed butter and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture becomes thick and sticky, resembling caramel.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Add in the protein powder, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt to the mixture. Blend again, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides to ensure everything is well incorporated.
- Shape the Bites: Scoop out the filling dough and roll it into balls about one tablespoon in size, forming the base of your protein bites.
- Chill for Coating (Optional): For a firmer texture that’s easier to dip, place the formed balls on a lined baking sheet and chill them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes.
- Melt the Chocolate Coating: In a small microwavable dish, combine the dark chocolate and coconut oil. Melt on high heat in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each interval until completely smooth.
- Dip and Set: Dip each chilled ball one at a time into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Place the coated bites back onto the lined baking sheet to allow the chocolate to set before serving.
Notes
- Use a paleo-friendly protein powder such as collagen or plant-based for best compatibility with the recipe.
- For a nut-free version, sunflower seed butter is an excellent alternative to traditional nut butters.
- Storage: Keep the bites refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
- These bites can be enjoyed without the chocolate coating if you prefer a simpler, quicker snack.
- You can substitute Medjool dates with any soft dates, but Medjool provides the best texture and sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
