Name: Salted Chocolate Protein Balls Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cup (275g) Medjool dates, 16-18 dates; 3 tablespoons oat flour; 3 tablespoons cacao powder; 1 scoop (25g) chocolate protein powder; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 2 tablespoons almond or cashew butter; ½ teaspoon sea salt; ½ cup dark chocolate chips; ½ teaspoon coconut oil; Flaky sea salt for topping

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If you’re craving a snack that delivers both indulgence and nourishment, the Salted Chocolate Protein Balls Recipe is your new best friend. These no-bake treats taste like rich brownie batter yet pack a wholesome punch thanks to ingredients like Medjool dates, cacao, and protein powder. Each bite offers a perfect harmony of sweet, salty, and chocolatey flavors along with a satisfyingly chewy texture that makes it easy to keep these little balls of joy on hand anytime hunger strikes or you need a quick energy boost.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear food processor bowl is filled with several layers of ingredients arranged around the center blade. The top left area shows a cluster of dark brown, wrinkled dates. Below them is a thick layer of dark brown cocoa powder. To the right of the dates, there is a small mound of white granular sugar, and next to it is a light brown powder, likely flour. On the bottom left, there is a dollop of shiny, smooth peanut butter. The ingredients rest inside the clear bowl, which sits on a white marbled surface. A small white bowl with dark chocolate chips is visible in the top right corner, while a beige cloth with black stitching is placed on the left side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is simple but crucial to achieving the perfect flavor and texture. Every element plays a key role: from the natural sweetness of dates to the richness of cacao and the nutty creaminess of almond butter.

Medjool dates (1 ½ cup/275g, about 16-18): These provide natural sweetness and a sticky base that binds everything together beautifully.
Oat flour (3 tablespoons): Adds a subtle nuttiness and helps give the balls structure without being overpowering.
Cacao powder (3 tablespoons): Offers deep chocolate flavor with an antioxidant boost.
Chocolate protein powder (1 scoop, 25g): A vital component to enhance the protein content while complementing the chocolate taste.
Maple syrup (2 tablespoons): Gives a smooth, natural sweetness that blends well with the dates.
Almond or cashew butter (2 tablespoons): Provides creaminess and healthy fats that keep the protein balls moist and delicious.
Sea salt (½ teaspoon): Just enough to elevate the chocolate and balance the sweetness.

For the chocolate coating:

Dark chocolate chips (½ cup): Creates that luxurious outer shell bursting with rich chocolate.
Coconut oil (½ teaspoon): Helps the chocolate melt smoothly and set perfectly.
Flaky sea salt (for topping): Adds the final touch of savory crunch to each bite.

How to Make Salted Chocolate Protein Balls Recipe

Step 1: Blend the Base Ingredients

Start by adding the Medjool dates, oat flour, cacao powder, chocolate protein powder, maple syrup, nut butter, and sea salt into a food processor. Blend everything until a sticky, uniform dough forms. Don’t worry if it takes a few pulses or if you need to scrape down the sides a couple of times to combine everything evenly. If it feels too dry or crumbly, adding a teaspoon or two of water will help the mixture bind beautifully. The dough is ready when it sticks together with a little pressure from your fingers.

Step 2: Shape the Protein Balls

Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, divide the dough into about 12 equal portions. Roll each portion between your palms until smooth and round. This step is fun because the sticky mixture transforms effortlessly into perfectly shaped balls that promise a bite-sized indulgence.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Coating

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips with coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring well between each interval, until you have a smooth, glossy chocolate sauce. This will be the decadent coating that surrounds each protein ball.

Step 4: Dip and Decorate

One by one, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, allowing any extra to drip off. Place the coated balls on a parchment-lined tray. While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top. This contrast of salty crunch with the sweet chocolate is what makes this Salted Chocolate Protein Balls Recipe simply unforgettable.

Step 5: Chill to Set

Pop the tray into the fridge or freezer for about 10 to 15 minutes until the chocolate hardens. Once set, these protein balls are ready to be enjoyed or stored for later snacking.

How to Serve Salted Chocolate Protein Balls Recipe

A white oval plate with a thin brown rim holds fifteen round chocolate balls arranged in a loose cluster. Each ball is coated in smooth dark brown chocolate, with a drizzle of slightly lighter chocolate on top creating thin lines. Small white flakes, likely sea salt, are sprinkled unevenly over each ball, adding texture and contrast. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface next to a beige cloth napkin with black stitching and two small white dishes, one with a green sauce and the other with coarse white salt. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To amp up the presentation and flavor, sprinkle extra flaky sea salt on the finished balls just before serving. If you like, you can also roll some in crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or even a dusting of cacao powder for a rustic touch. These garnishes add texture and a hint of elegance.

Side Dishes

While these protein balls shine as a stand-alone snack, they pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a creamy plant-based milk. For a full mini dessert platter, add fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a light yogurt dip that enhances the rich chocolate taste.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging the Salted Chocolate Protein Balls Recipe in a pretty jar or a decorative box tied with a ribbon, making them ideal for gifting or sharing at a gathering. You can also place them on a tiered dessert stand for parties, or pack them individually in small snack bags for on-the-go energy boosts that feel like a treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover protein balls refrigerated in an airtight container for up to a week. This helps them maintain their shape and freshness without losing any of their delicious chewiness.

Freezing

These protein balls freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready for a quick snack, thaw a few minutes at room temperature, or enjoy them straight from the freezer for a cool, refreshing bite.

Reheating

Since these are no-bake, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. If you prefer your chocolate coating a little softer, simply leave the balls at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of protein powder?

Absolutely! While chocolate protein powder amplifies the flavor, you can substitute with vanilla or unflavored protein powder. Just note that this may change the overall taste slightly.

Are these suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes! By using plant-based protein powder and ensuring your chocolate chips are dairy-free, these protein balls are completely vegan-friendly.

What if I don’t have oat flour?

No problem! You can make your own oat flour by grinding rolled oats in a blender or food processor until fine. Alternatively, almond flour can be used, but it will change the texture a bit.

Can I skip the chocolate coating?

Of course! The protein balls are delicious on their own. Coating with chocolate just adds a special touch and extra decadence, but it’s totally optional.

How many calories are in each protein ball?

The calories vary depending on the exact ingredients and size, but each ball typically contains around 120-150 calories, making them a guilt-free treat packed with nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Salted Chocolate Protein Balls Recipe is such a joy to make and even more fun to eat. It’s the perfect little pick-me-up that feels indulgent yet nourishes your body. Once you try these, you’ll want to keep a batch ready in your fridge at all times. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves and treat yourself — you deserve it!