Whether you’re running errands, chasing toddlers, or sitting through another Zoom call, these chocolate protein balls will get you through the day. They’re rich, chewy, naturally sweet, and loaded with plant-based protein thanks to almonds, hemp seeds, and dates.
I’m not one to casually throw around the word “brownie,” but dare I say, these protein balls really feel like a healthy version of the beloved dessert. It mimics the chocolately flavors and soft and chewy texture of a brownie, except you don’t even have to turn your oven on. Just toss everything in a food processor and you’ve got a high-protein snack ready to grab and enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything that goes into these chocolatey, chewy protein bites:
Roasted almonds – These form the crunchy, nutty base and are packed with protein and healthy fats. Use roasted for extra depth of flavor.
Medjool dates – Naturally sweet and sticky, these act as both the sweetener and the binder. Just make sure to remove the pits before blending.
Cocoa powder – Adds a rich chocolate flavor without any added sugar. Go for unsweetened, Dutch processed cocoa powder for best results.
Hemp seeds – Tiny but mighty, hemp seeds are loaded with plant-based protein and omega-3s. They also help hold the balls together.
Maple syrup – A touch of extra sweetness and moisture to balance out the dark cocoa. Honey or agave works as a swap here too.
Chocolate chips – For melty chocolate pockets in every bite. Use mini chips for easier blending, or go big if you’re into chunky texture.
Vanilla extract – Rounds out the chocolate flavor and adds that “cookie dough” aroma.
Salt – Just a pinch makes all the chocolate flavors pop. Don’t skip it!
Optional: add a splash of water if the mixture is too dry when blending.
Tools You’ll Need
- Food processor
- Silicon spatula
- Butter knife (to pit the dates)
- Mini cookie scoop (or a spoon will do the trick)
How to Make Chocolate Protein Balls
1. Process the nuts
Add almonds to your food processor and pulse until broken into small bits—think gravel, not dust.
2. Add everything else (minus the chocolate chips)
Toss in the pitted dates, cocoa powder, hemp seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until everything sticks together in a crumbly but cohesive texture. The texture should resemble play doh when squished together.
3. Add chocolate chips
Pulse the chocolate chips in last. You still want some texture and small chunks of chocolate in every bite.
4. Roll into balls
Wet your hands, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture, and roll into compact balls.
5. Store or eat immediately
Enjoy right away or store in an airtight container:
- Fridge: Up to 2 weeks
- Freezer: Up to 3 months
Do I Have to Use Medjool Dates?
Medjool dates have a much sweeter and fuller flavor and are also larger than other dates, so it’s important to use the right kind for this recipe. Often referred to as “nature’s candy,” medjool dates have a caramel-like texture and flavor, yet are naturally sweet. To get the right amount of sweetness as well as chewy texture for our protein balls, make sure you are using medjool dates.
Tips & Customizations
- No almonds? Swap in cashews, walnuts, or peanuts.
- Nut-free? Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
- Extra protein boost: Add a scoop of chocolate or vanilla protein powder. You may need to adjust the level of
- Make it fancy: Roll the balls in cocoa powder or shredded coconut for a coated finish.
Storage & Food Safety
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. I recommended letting the balls sit out for a few minutes to soften before consuming.
- Or freeze for up to 3 months—just thaw for a few minutes before eating.
- Always use clean, dry hands when handling to prevent spoilage.
Why You'll Love These Protein Balls
- No baking required. Especially great in the summer months.
- Naturally sweetened with dates and maple syrup
- Packed with plant-based protein from the almonds and hemp seeds
- Kid-friendly and meal-prep approved
- Totally customizable with pantry staples
You May Also Like
Chocolate Protein Balls Recipe (No-Bake, High-Protein Snack)
Equipment
- Food processor
- Silicon spatula
- Butter knife for pitting the dates
- Spoon or mini cookie dough scooper
Ingredients
- 1 cup roasted almonds
- 1 cup medjool dates with pits removed about 10 dates
- 3 tbsp cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp hemp seeds
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Add the nuts to a food processor and blend until the nuts are broken up into tiny pieces.
- Add the dates, cocoa powder, hemp seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until everything is well combined and the mixture is crumbly.
- Add chocolate chips and blend for another 30 to 60 seconds. The mixture should be crumbly but moldable like clay. If mixture is too dry, add water a tablespoon at a time until you achieve the desired texture.
- Wet your hands with water and scoop 2 tbsp of the mixture into your hands and roll into balls.
- Enjoy right away. Leftovers can be stored in an air tight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
