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
Scale
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
