Busy moms often juggle a million tasks in a day, leaving little time for meal prep or snack-making. If you’re looking for a quick, nutritious treat that satisfies your sweet cravings without derailing your healthy eating goals, you’ve found it. These Cookie Dough Protein Balls deliver the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and nutrition, making them a delightful addition to your family’s snack routine.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe works wonders for families for several reasons. It’s incredibly easy and quick to make, so you can whip it up in no time. The minimal prep means even the busiest of schedules can fit it in. Plus, kids love the sweet taste of cookie dough in a healthier form. You can feel good about giving them a protein boost while also satisfying their sweet tooth.
How to Make Cookie Dough Protein Balls
Ingredients
- 1 cup vanilla protein powder (Use any brand of vanilla protein powder for muscle recovery.)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (Substitute with dark chocolate for richer taste.)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (Honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives.)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter (Swap for sun butter to keep it nut-free.)
- Dried fruit (Add for natural sweetness.)
- Chopped nuts (Include for crunch and healthy fats.)
- Seeds (Boosts nutritional value.)
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla protein powder, chocolate chips, maple syrup, and peanut butter or almond butter.
- Stir until the mixture is well blended and forms a dough-like consistency.
- If desired, fold in dried fruit, chopped nuts, and seeds for extra flavor and texture.
- Use your hands to roll the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cookie Dough Protein Balls
Nutritious and delicious protein balls that satisfy sweet cravings while boosting energy.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 20 balls 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
- Dried fruit (optional)
- Chopped nuts (optional)
- Seeds (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla protein powder, chocolate chips, maple syrup, and peanut butter or almond butter.
- Stir until the mixture is well blended and forms a dough-like consistency.
- If desired, fold in dried fruit, chopped nuts, and seeds for extra flavor and texture.
- Use your hands to roll the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Notes
These protein balls can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Refrigerating
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free (if protein powder is certified gluten-free)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
How to Serve
Serve these delightful protein balls as a quick snack or dessert after school or during family movie nights. Pair them with fruits or yogurt for a balanced treat. You can also pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet surprise that adds excitement to your child’s midday meal.
How to Store
Store the Cookie Dough Protein Balls in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to a week, so you can make them ahead of time for easy access throughout the week. If you’ve made a large batch, consider freezing some for later. Just thaw them in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy.
Tips and Variations
Feel free to adapt this recipe to suit your family’s preferences. Use almond butter for a creamier texture or try different nut butters based on your likes. Swap the chocolate chips for butterscotch or white chocolate for a fun twist. Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. Experiment with different types of dried fruit or nuts to keep it interesting.
FAQs
Can I use protein powder flavors other than vanilla?
Yes, you can use chocolate or other flavors you enjoy. Just remember that it may change the taste profile slightly.
Are these gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free certified protein powder and check labels on other ingredients, they are gluten-free.
Can kids help make these?
Absolutely! This recipe is simple enough for kids to help with mixing and rolling the balls. It can be a fun activity to do together.
Conclusion
These Cookie Dough Protein Balls That Satisfy Your Sweet Cravings are a fantastic way to indulge without guilt. They fit seamlessly into your busy family’s lifestyle, providing nutrition and satisfaction. Give them a try and don’t forget to save this recipe for your next snack-making day!
