Nutella Protein Balls Recipe
Introduction
These Nutella Protein Balls are a delicious and easy snack packed with chocolate flavor and protein. Perfect for a quick energy boost or a healthy treat, they combine creamy hazelnut spread with chocolate chips for a satisfying bite.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons chocolate protein powder
- 2 tablespoons coconut flour
- 1 tablespoon chocolate hazelnut spread (such as Nutella or Nutiva)
- 1/3 cup chocolate chips of choice
- 1 tablespoon chocolate hazelnut spread (such as Nutella or Nutiva) for coating
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, mix the chocolate protein powder, coconut flour, and 1 tablespoon of chocolate hazelnut spread until combined. If the dough is too soft, add more coconut flour a teaspoon at a time. If it is too thick, add a teaspoon or more of water or almond milk to reach a dough-like consistency.
- Step 2: Roll the mixture into tablespoon-sized balls. Place the balls on a plate and refrigerate for 15 minutes to set.
- Step 3 (Optional): Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave using 20-second bursts, stirring between each burst until smooth. Stir in 1 tablespoon of chocolate hazelnut spread to the melted chocolate. Dip each protein ball into the chocolate coating, place on parchment paper, sprinkle with cocoa powder, and let the chocolate set before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free option, use sunflower seed butter instead of chocolate hazelnut spread.
- Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate coating to enhance the flavors.
- If you prefer a crunchier texture, mix in chopped nuts or seeds with the dough.
- Store in the refrigerator for a firmer texture or at room temperature for a softer bite.
Storage
Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months; thaw in the fridge before serving. If coated in chocolate, keep refrigerated to maintain the coating’s firmness. To enjoy at room temperature, let sit out for 10-15 minutes before eating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these without chocolate protein powder?
Yes, you can substitute with plain protein powder or finely ground oats for a similar texture, though the flavor will be less chocolatey.
What can I use if I don’t have coconut flour?
Almond flour or finely ground oats can be used as alternatives, but you may need to adjust the liquid amounts slightly to achieve the right consistency.
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Nutella Protein Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 protein balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Nutella Protein Balls that offer a perfect blend of chocolate and hazelnut flavors with a protein-packed punch. These bite-sized snacks are ideal for a quick energy boost, pre- or post-workout treat, or healthy dessert option. They are no-bake and can be customized with optional chocolate coating for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Protein Ball Base
- 2 tbsp chocolate protein powder
- 2 tbsp coconut flour
- 1 tbsp chocolate hazelnut spread (such as Nutella or Nutiva)
Chocolate Coating (Optional)
- 1/3 cup chocolate chips of choice
- 1 tbsp chocolate hazelnut spread (such as Nutella or Nutiva)
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate protein powder, coconut flour, and 1 tablespoon of chocolate hazelnut spread. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. If the dough feels too soft, slowly add coconut flour one teaspoon at a time; if too thick, add water or almond milk a teaspoon at a time until the right consistency is reached.
- Form Balls and Chill: Roll the mixture into tablespoon-sized balls using your hands. Place them on a plate or tray and refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow the balls to set and firm up.
- (Optional) Prepare Chocolate Coating: Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl by heating in 20-second intervals, stirring well between each heating, until fully melted. Stir in 1 tablespoon of chocolate hazelnut spread to create a smooth chocolate coating.
- Coat Protein Balls: Dip each protein ball into the melted chocolate mixture ensuring it is fully coated. Place the coated balls onto parchment paper, sprinkle with cocoa powder if desired, and let the chocolate coating set at room temperature until firm before serving.
Notes
- Add coconut flour gradually to avoid a dry dough.
- Use almond milk or water sparingly to adjust the dough texture.
- Refrigeration helps the balls to hold their shape better.
- The chocolate coating is optional but adds richness and visual appeal.
- Store protein balls in an airtight container refrigerated for up to one week.
- Feel free to substitute chocolate hazelnut spread with a sugar-free or vegan alternative if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Nutella protein balls, chocolate hazelnut protein bites, no-bake protein snacks, healthy chocolate snack, easy protein balls
