Protein balls? power bites? power balls? little blobs of deliciousness that are totally perfect for snacks, dessert, or pre-workout fuel? Yeah, that sounds about right. But wouldn’t make a very google-friendly recipe title, so I’m sticking with Protein Power Bites.
Don’t take this the wrong way, but we’re going to be talking a lot about balls today. PROTEIN bites/balls whateveryawannacallthem, you pervs. Keep your dirty minds at home. Kthanks.
These protein bites have become known as “Dana’s famous balls” at my gym. One time I brought them during a noon crossfit class to share with everyone at barbell that night…and they were gone by the time I came back at 7pm. Don’t get me wrong, it’s fantastic that everyone loved them! But I’m pretty sure it was just the two coaches hoarding them all to themselves, being totally mature and seeing how many they could fit in their mouths at one time…way to save some for the athletes guys, way to go. Also, how the HECK did you eat that many and not get insanely full?!!
Let me tell you. These little babies are DENSE. For real. They’re jam packed with cashews, nut butter, protein powder for some extra oomph, and a couple other goodies like dried cranberries or blueberries, maple syrup for a touch of sweetness, chocolate chips (if you’re feeling dessert-y), sea salt and vanilla. Basically they taste like no-bake cookies but they’ve got some protein powder in them so your blood sugar doesn’t go on a rollercoaster when you eat them, like it does with “regular” cookies (that are also totally packed with sugar).
A solid serving size is probably 2-3 of these and you’re good to go. Oh, you were starving at 4pm and dinner isn’t until 6? Pop a few of these and you’ll be good. You’re working out at 4:30 and need something to get you through besides your lunch at 12pm? I’ll eat a couple around 3pm. Split the whole batch at one time with your best friend / coworker? Probably not your best bet if you planned on eating any other meals the rest of the day – you’ll be too full, ha!
So I have not one, but TWO different protein power bites recipes for you today: Cashew Cranberry, And Dark Chocolate Maple Blueberry. Want more of a dessert-y tasting bite? Go for the Maple Blueberry. Want a little less sweet? Go for the Cashew Cranberry. They’re both freaking delicious. I brought both batches to the gym to see if people could decide which one they liked better…nope. They’re both amazing, but in totally different flavor ways. So you guys are getting two recipes in one today! You’re welcome.
Oh, and make sure you’re using a QUALITY protein powder. Not one with a bunch of fillers and ingredients you can’t understand. My favorite: Rootz Paleo Protein Superfood. Ever since I tried their protein this spring I haven’t used any other kind. It’s super hard to find a dairy-free protein powder that actually tastes delicious and doesn’t have super junky, soy-based, stomach-wrecking ingredients. Both the Rootz post-workout protein and preworkout are freaking delicious (probably the best tasting I’ve ever had, and I’ve tried a lot of proteins!), and are made from only whole foods. Chocolate Banana Nut Protein? Get me on that. The protein blend of egg whites, sacha inchi protein, and hemp protein PLUS an electrolyte blend, green detox blend, and a superfood blend? Uhh…YES.
Let’s go make some power balls/bites/thingies, shall we?
- ⅓ cup cashews
- 1 scoop + 1 Tbsp protein powder (rootz)
- 1 cup unsweetened, shredded coconut
- ½ cup sunflower seed butter
- 2 Tbsp ground flaxseeds
- 2 Tbsp raw honey
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ⅛ tsp sea salt
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ⅓ cup cashews
- 1 scoop + 1 Tbsp protein powder (rootz)
- 1 cup unsweetened, shredded coconut
- ½ cup unsalted almond butter
- 2 Tbsp ground flaxseeds
- 2 Tbsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ⅛ tsp sea salt
- 3 Tbsp dried blueberries
- 2 Tbsp chocolate chips
- Combine all ingredients except the dried fruit and chocolate (if using) in the food processor and mix until well combined. You may need to use a spatula to scrape down the sides a few times.
- Transfer to a mixing bowl and stir in the dried fruit (and chocolate)
- Use a cookie scoop or rounded tablespoon to form into bite-sized pieces. You’ll need to smush the dough into the scooper with your hand, then form them into circles.
- Best enjoyed slightly chilled, and stored in the refrigerator. I recommend letting them sit out for a few minutes before you eat them, so they’re nice and chewy!
Inspired by Whole Health Hacks. If you’re looking for more great, REAL FOOD pre- and post-workout nutrition ideas, check out their ebook: Whole Health Hacks’ Guide to Pre and Post-Workout Meals!
P.s. If you’re interested in trying out Rootz, they have it on amazon, BUT if you order through their website, it’s the same price…and if you use the code “realfoodwithdana” you’ll get 10% off your order! Up to you!
What’s your favorite thing to eat before workouts?
