Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten-Free, Paleo) Recipe
Introduction
These Brownie Protein Bites are a delicious, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly snack that combines the rich taste of chocolate with the benefits of protein. Perfect for a quick energy boost or a guilt-free treat, they can be enjoyed as-is or coated in dark chocolate for an extra indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Medjool dates (about 13 dates)
- 1/3 cup sunflower seed butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup protein powder*
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate
- 1/2 tsp coconut oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Remove the pits from your dates and soak them in hot water for 5 minutes. This softens them, making them easier to blend and creating a chewier texture.
- Step 2: Drain the water from the dates, then place them in your food processor with the sunflower seed butter and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture resembles a thick, sticky caramel.
- Step 3: Add the protein powder, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt to the food processor. Blend again, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides until everything is well combined.
- Step 4: Scoop the mixture and roll it into balls about one tablespoon in size.
- Step 5: You can eat the balls immediately or chill them in the freezer on a lined baking sheet for at least 30 minutes for a firmer texture before dipping.
- Step 6: Melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil together in a small microwave-safe dish. Heat on high in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
- Step 7: Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, then place them back on the lined baking sheet to set. Allow the chocolate to harden before enjoying.
Tips & Variations
- Substitute sunflower seed butter with almond or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Use your favorite protein powder, such as whey, pea, or collagen, to suit dietary preferences.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle shredded coconut or crushed nuts over the chocolate coating before it sets.
Storage
Store the protein bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze them for longer storage. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator before eating. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of dates?
Yes, any soft Medjool-like dates work best because they blend smoothly. If using drier dates, soaking longer will help soften them.
Is it necessary to dip the bites in chocolate?
No, the protein bites are delicious on their own if you prefer a simpler snack or want to avoid extra calories from chocolate.
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Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten-Free, Paleo) Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 15 bites 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and nutritious Brownie Protein Bites that are gluten-free and paleo-friendly. These no-bake treats blend Medjool dates, sunflower seed butter, protein powder, and cocoa to create chewy, chocolatey bites perfect for a healthy snack or post-workout fuel. Finished with a rich dark chocolate coating, they satisfy sweet cravings while packing a protein punch.
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 (choose your favorite)
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- Pinch of salt
Chocolate Coating
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate
- 1/2 tsp coconut oil
Instructions
- Soften the Dates: Remove the pits from the Medjool dates and soak them in hot water for 5 minutes. This softening step helps the dates blend smoothly and creates a chewy texture for the filling.
- Blend the Base: Drain the water from the soaked dates. Place the dates in a food processor along with sunflower seed butter and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture resembles a thick, sticky caramel consistency.
- Add Remaining Filling Ingredients: Add protein powder, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt to the food processor. Blend again until all ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is uniform, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Form the Bites: Scoop the dough using about one tablespoon per portion and roll into bite-sized balls with your hands.
- Chill the Bites: Place the balls on a lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes. This step firms up the bites and prepares them for coating.
- Melt the Chocolate Coating: In a small microwavable dish, combine dark chocolate and coconut oil. Melt on high in 20-30 second increments, stirring between each until smooth.
- Dip and Set: One at a time, dip each chilled bite into the melted chocolate, coating completely. Return the coated bites to the lined baking sheet to set.
Notes
- Use your preferred protein powder, such as whey, pea, or collagen, depending on dietary preference.
- Storing the bites in the freezer helps maintain their shape and texture.
- For a nut-free version, confirm that sunflower seed butter is safe for your needs.
- Adjust sweetness by selecting naturally sweet Medjool dates; you can add a little maple syrup if needed.
- Ensure chocolate used is dairy-free if following strict paleo guidelines.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: brownie protein bites, gluten free snacks, paleo snack, no bake protein bites, healthy chocolate bites, Medjool date snacks, sunflower seed butter recipes
