Vegan Protein Balls

Hungry for more delicious plant-based snacks? These hazelnut chocolate vegan protein balls are quick and easy to make with a quick whirl in the food processor and will satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping you healthy. Win-win-win!

They pack a punch with plant-based protein and their vegan nutella flavor, making them perfect for a post-workout snack or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. And you can add a scoop of vegan protein powder for an extra protein boost!

For more vegan protein-packed articles, check out these vegan protein bars, dairy-free protein drinks, and unique protein source guides!

Why You Must Try This Vegan Protein Balls Recipe

Here’s why a vegan protein ball recipe featuring protein powder is a must-try!

• Quick and Easy Preparation. With minimal ingredients and no baking required, they’re quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy schedules.
• Protein-Packed Powerhouses. These protein balls are a fantastic way to increase your daily protein intake.
• Versatile Snacking. They’re a versatile snack that can be enjoyed post-workout, as a midday pick-me-up, or even as a healthy dessert alternative. (Pre-workout snacks are important, too!)
• Balanced Nutrition. These healthy treats provide a balanced mix of nutrients, including fiber from dates, healthy fats from nuts like hazelnuts, and antioxidants from cocoa powder.
• Customizable Flavors. You can easily customize flavors by choosing different types of protein powders (like chocolate or vanilla), or adding variations such as coconut flakes or almond butter.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

Curious about the key ingredients for vegan protein balls? These are the star ingredients and simple swaps to personalize your perfect snack.

• Hazelnuts – Add a nutty flavor and crunchy texture. You can substitute almost any other nut here—including walnuts, pecans, cashews (like in this cashew milk), or almonds, you just may need to adjust the nut-to-date ratio slightly to achieve the perfect cookie-dough-like texture.
• Medjool Dates – Add a natural sweetness to the protein balls, reducing the amount of extra refined sugar. They help bind the ingredients together, giving the balls their shape and chewy texture. Raisins or dried figs can be used instead of dates.
• Cocoa Powder – Lends a deep, chocolatey flavor to the protein balls. Feel free to use carob powder instead of cocoa powder for a similar taste with a slightly different flavor profile.
• Protein Powder – To boost the protein content further, you can add a scoop of your favorite vegan protein powder (like Plant Protein+ from NBPure with vegan omega-3 fatty acids).
• Coconut Oil – Helps to bind the ingredients and solidify the mixture when cooled. Melted vegan butter or avocado oil would work well, too.

You can also try our delicious date truffles made with walnuts instead of hazelnuts, for another spin on this popular protein balls recipe concept.

How to Make These Chocolate Hazelnut Protein Balls

Making these tasty vegan protein balls with protein powder is simple and fun.

Step 1: Blend Ingredients – In a food processor, process the hazelnuts, dates, cocoa powder, protein powder, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.

Step 2: Chill and Shape – Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes. Once chilled, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls with your hands.

Finally, Step 3: Finish and Store – Roll the protein balls in cocoa powder, hazelnut powder, chopped nuts, or dip them in melted chocolate. Store in the fridge or freezer for up to 4 weeks.

FAQs