Description
These Dark Chocolate Protein Balls are a delicious and nutritious snack packed with rich chocolate flavor and plant-based protein. Made with rich chocolate pea protein, cacao powder, and sunflower seed butter, they offer a perfect balance of sweetness and wholesome ingredients. Coated in smooth melted dark chocolate and sprinkled with sea salt, these no-bake treats are perfect for a quick energy boost or healthy dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Nuzest rich chocolate pea protein
- 1/4 cup cacao powder
- Flaked sea salt (for garnish)
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sunflower seed butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Water, as needed to achieve dough consistency
Coating
- 3–4 oz dark chocolate (for dipping)
- 1 tsp coconut oil (for melting chocolate)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the rich chocolate pea protein, cacao powder, and a pinch of flaked sea salt. Stir well to ensure even distribution.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the sunflower seed butter and vanilla extract. Gradually add water a little at a time until the mixture holds together like a dough that can be rolled into balls.
- Form Balls: Roll the dough into balls about the size of a tablespoon and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze to Firm Up: Freeze the balls for at least 30 minutes to let them firm up, making them easier to dip.
- Melt Chocolate: Gently melt the dark chocolate with coconut oil over low heat or in a double boiler until smooth and glossy.
- Dip Balls in Chocolate: Using a fork or skewer, dip each protein ball into the melted chocolate, coating it thoroughly. Place the dipped balls back onto parchment paper.
- Decorate and Set: Drizzle any remaining chocolate over the balls and sprinkle with flaked sea salt. Allow the chocolate to set before serving or storing.
Notes
- Use a natural sunflower seed butter without added sugars or hydrogenated oils for best results.
- If the dough is too dry, add water a teaspoon at a time to reach the right consistency.
- For a firmer shell, refrigerate dipped balls after coating.
- Store protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
- Feel free to substitute dark chocolate with vegan-certified chocolate if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (for melting chocolate and setting)
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake, Freezing
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 protein ball (approx. 25g)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 45 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: dark chocolate protein balls, vegan protein snack, no-bake chocolate balls, healthy chocolate snacks, plant-based protein balls