Protein Balls Low Carb
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
These low carb protein balls are the perfect snack for those looking to indulge without the guilt. Packed with flavor and nutrients, they make a great post-workout treat or a quick energy boost throughout the day.
Discover the joy of healthy snacking with these delicious low carb protein balls. Perfectly balanced and satisfying, they offer a delightful alternative to traditional snacks.
Why You'll Love These Protein Balls
- Low in carbs but high in flavor
- Quick and easy to make in just 10 minutes
- Great for meal prep or on-the-go snacking
Nutritional Benefits
These low carb protein balls are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. The almond flour provides a good source of healthy fats and protein while being low in carbohydrates. This makes them an excellent choice for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb diet.
The addition of protein powder boosts the protein content significantly, making these protein balls a fantastic post-workout snack. They help in muscle recovery and keep you feeling full longer. Plus, the healthy fats from nut butter contribute to sustained energy levels throughout the day.
Unsweetened cocoa powder not only adds a rich chocolate flavor but also contains antioxidants, which can help combat free radicals in the body. This makes your snack not only tasty but also beneficial for your overall health.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best things about these protein balls is how easy they are to make in bulk. You can whip up a batch in just 10 minutes and store them in the refrigerator for a quick snack throughout the week. This makes them perfect for busy schedules or when you're on the go.
By preparing these protein balls ahead of time, you can avoid reaching for less healthy snacks when hunger strikes. They’re also versatile—feel free to customize your protein balls with different flavors or add-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruits, depending on your dietary preferences.
These protein balls are not only great for yourself but also make an excellent snack to share with family and friends. Pack them for school lunches, take them on road trips, or serve them at gatherings; they’re sure to be a hit!
Customizing Your Protein Balls
While this recipe is delicious as is, one of the joys of making protein balls is the ability to customize them. If you're looking for a different flavor profile, consider swapping the cocoa powder for cinnamon and adding in some chopped nuts or dried fruit for a delightful twist.
For those who enjoy a touch of sweetness, you can experiment with different sweeteners or even natural options like honey or maple syrup if they fit into your dietary plan. Just remember that this may slightly alter the carb count.
Additionally, if you want to enhance the texture, consider adding a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseeds. These not only contribute to the nutritional value but also provide a pleasant crunch.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Low Carb Protein Balls
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla flavor)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons sweetener (like erythritol or stevia)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2-4 tablespoons water (as needed)
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to form a dough.
Instructions
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine almond flour, protein powder, cocoa powder, nut butter, shredded coconut, sweetener, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Form Balls
Add water gradually until the mixture holds together. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Chill and Serve
Place the balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
Enjoy your low carb protein balls as a healthy snack!
Storing Your Protein Balls
To keep your low carb protein balls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They typically last for about a week, making them a great option for meal prep. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months—just remember to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
When you're ready to enjoy them, simply take them out of the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes. This way, you always have a healthy snack on hand whenever cravings hit.
Serving Suggestions
These protein balls can be enjoyed on their own, but they can also be paired with other healthy snacks for a more satisfying treat. Consider serving them with a side of Greek yogurt or a handful of fresh berries for added nutrients and flavor.
If you’re looking to boost your energy before a workout, pair these protein balls with a banana or an apple. The combination of protein and carbohydrates will give you the fuel you need to power through your exercise routine.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different nut flour?
Yes, you can substitute almond flour with coconut flour or sunflower seed flour, but adjust the quantities as needed.
→ How should I store these protein balls?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
→ Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! You can add ingredients like chia seeds, flaxseeds, or even small pieces of dark chocolate.
→ Are these suitable for meal prep?
Yes, these protein balls are perfect for meal prep. Simply make a batch and store them for quick snacks throughout the week.
Protein Balls Low Carb
These low carb protein balls are the perfect snack for those looking to indulge without the guilt. Packed with flavor and nutrients, they make a great post-workout treat or a quick energy boost throughout the day.
Created by: Harriet Collins
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 balls
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Low Carb Protein Balls
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla flavor)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons sweetener (like erythritol or stevia)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2-4 tablespoons water (as needed)
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine almond flour, protein powder, cocoa powder, nut butter, shredded coconut, sweetener, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Add water gradually until the mixture holds together. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Place the balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 6g