Orange Chocolate Date Protein Balls

Date protein balls are a healthy and filling snack or breakfast any time of year. Sweet dates, nut flour, protein powder, and flavorings like orange and vanilla combine in this 15 minute recipe to create a sweet, protein packed treat.

Healthy, whole food snacks like these date protein balls are one of my favorite things to have on hand. They stop me from snacking on less nutritious things because they’re delicious enough to crave, and they’re also full of protein so I actually feel full after eating one.

This recipe is similar to my healthy no-bake chocolate energy bites, but has the classic, tasty flavor combination of orange and chocolate. They have natural sweetness from dates plus 5 grams of protein each thanks to the combination of nut flour and protein powder. Just one is perfect to hold you over between meals, but I won’t tell if you indulge in a second!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• They’re a quick snack you can make in just 15 minutes and last a week in the fridge.
• The ingredients are available year around so you can always have them on hand.
• You can easily customize them to your own tastes.

Ingredients

It takes just 6 ingredients to form the perfect flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need and my best recommendations for substitutions.

• Protein Powder – I recommend an unflavored protein powder. If you can’t find it, use chocolate to complement the existing flavors.
• Almond Flour – Any type of finely ground nut flour will work instead.
• Cocoa Powder
• Salt
• Vanilla Extract – Almond extract can also be used, but only add ¼ teaspoon at first because it’s very strong.
• Orange – You’ll need one fresh orange to zest and squeeze for juice. Other similar citruses like tangerines, mandarins, or clementines can be used.
• Medjool Dates – If you can’t find them, deglet noor dates are sometimes available instead, or you can use raisins or dried prunes as an alternative.

Protein balls with dates are surprisingly easy to customize! By switching up the extract or nut flour the flavors will change slightly. You can also add up to 5 extra dates for added sweetness.

But one of my favorite ways is by alternating toppings. I like to roll half the balls in coconut flakes, and the other half in chopped pistachios. You can use any type of chopped nut, crushed goji berries, crushed freeze-dried berries, or cocoa powder as well.

Instructions

This recipe is really easy, but it is key to use a good, strong blender so the ingredients can combine smoothly. Start by pitting the dates and chopping them into smaller bits.

Next combine the almond flour, cocoa powder, protein powder, and salt in a bowl. Transfer to a food processor and add the orange juice, zest, and vanilla extract. Blend briefly to combine.

Next add one third of the chopped dates to the blender. Once they’re smoothly blended in, add another third and blend again. Repeat with the remaining amount of dates until it’s all combined smoothly.

You should have a smooth, sticky dough. Scoop a tablespoon of the mixture and make the ball by rolling it between your palms. Then roll all balls in your toppings of choice such as coconut flakes or crushed pistachios.

Serving and Storage

You are free to enjoy one as soon as they’re made. Pop the remaining protein balls into an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to one week.

Snack on them straight from the fridge whenever you feel like it! I love to enjoy mine with a hot cup of coffee in the morning, or as a quick pick me up in the afternoon.

I think you’ll love the combination of orange and chocolate in these protein packed snacks, and don’t forget to check out my other healthy sweet bites while you’re here.

• Sugar Free Banana Date Bread
• Dark Chocolate Hummus
• Chocolate Lentil Brownies
• Buckwheat Banana Bread
• Healthy Blueberry Zucchini Bread