Low Calorie Protein Balls
User Reviews
5
Low Calorie Protein Balls
Description
The recipe combines dried blueberries with almond butter and coconut milk in a food processor, resulting in a chunky purée. Vegan protein powder is mixed in afterward to thicken and bind the mixture. The use of full-fat coconut milk ensures cohesion and richness. The balls are portioned using an ice-cream scoop and chilled until firm.
The resulting protein balls are mild in sweetness, with the flavor profile influenced largely by the chosen protein powder. Using sweetened nut butters will increase sweetness, while the type of protein powder—such as pea or brown rice protein—affects taste and texture. Vegan protein powders are necessary due to their better absorption of liquids and binding properties.
These protein balls are best served chilled, as they soften at room temperature. Their size makes them convenient snacks for controlled portions.
Substitutions can be made for dietary needs, such as using sunflower seed butter for nut allergies and selecting pea protein for a paleo-friendly option. Adjust protein powder amounts if using fermented versus non-fermented types to achieve the desired texture.
Ingredients
- ½ cup dried blueberries or any dried fruit
- ⅓ cup coconut milk full fat
- 2 tbs almond butter or peanut butter
- ¼ cup vegan vanilla protein powder
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the coconut milk, nut-butter, and dried blueberries.
- Process for 1-2 minutes (the blueberries will still be chunky).
- Scrape the mixture into a bowl with the protein powder.
- Mix until thick looking.
- Use a trigger ice cream scoop to portion the balls onto a cutting board.
- Pop them in the fridge for an hour to firm up.
Notes
- The choice of protein powder affects taste and density; sweeter powders yield sweeter balls.
- Full-fat coconut milk's thick cream should be used for proper binding, avoiding the watery part.
- Store the protein balls refrigerated and consume chilled to maintain firmness.
- For nut-free versions, substitute almond or peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- If using non-fermented protein powder, add an extra tablespoon to the mix for better consistency.
- Pea protein powder is preferred over brown rice for texture and flavor if making paleo-friendly balls.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 7Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 104 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 104kcal | 5% |
| Carbohydrates | 11g | 4% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 5g | 8% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 8mg | 3% |
| Sodium | 14mg | 1% |
| Potassium | 159mg | 3% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 6g | 12% |
| Vitamin A | 0.05IU | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 0.1mg | 0% |
| Calcium | 43mg | 4% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.