Protein Balls Low Carb
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
These delicious protein balls are the perfect low-carb snack to keep your energy up without the guilt.
These protein balls are a fantastic low-carb option for a quick snack. Packed with protein and healthy fats, they are perfect for post-workout recovery or a midday energy boost.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make with just a few ingredients
- Low in carbs, making them perfect for keto diets
- Packed with protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied
- Versatile and can be customized with your favorite flavors
Health Benefits of Protein Balls
Protein balls are not just a tasty snack; they are also packed with numerous health benefits. With a blend of high-quality protein sources, such as protein powder and nut butter, these little bites can help support muscle recovery and growth. They provide a great post-workout snack that aids in replenishing energy levels while keeping you full for longer periods, making them ideal for those looking to maintain or lose weight.
In addition to being protein-rich, these protein balls are low in carbohydrates, making them a great choice for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb diet. This means you can indulge in a sweet treat without compromising your dietary goals. The use of almond flour further enhances their nutritional profile, offering healthy fats and essential vitamins and minerals.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of making protein balls is their versatility. The base recipe can be easily modified to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For instance, if you prefer a different nut butter, feel free to swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter. You can also experiment with different flavors of protein powder to create unique combinations that keep your snack time exciting.
Additionally, you can enhance the nutritional value by adding superfoods such as chia seeds, flaxseeds, or even a scoop of greens powder. Mix in some chopped nuts, seeds, or sugar-free chocolate chips for added texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a personalized snack that aligns perfectly with your lifestyle.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Storing your protein balls properly is essential to maintain their freshness and flavor. After chilling, you can keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to prepare them in advance, consider freezing the protein balls. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months, making them a convenient grab-and-go snack for busy days.
When preparing meals for the week, these protein balls can serve as a quick and nutritious option for breakfast or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Simply pack a couple in your lunchbox, and you'll have a delicious and satisfying snack ready whenever you need a boost of energy.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Protein Balls
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons erythritol or your preferred low-carb sweetener
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup water (as needed)
Mix and match ingredients to suit your taste!
Instructions
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine almond flour, protein powder, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, and sweetener.
Add Wet Ingredients
Add peanut butter and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
Adjust Consistency
If the mixture is too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time until it reaches a moldable consistency.
Form Balls
Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Chill and Serve
Place the protein balls on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your homemade low-carb protein balls!
Tips for Perfect Protein Balls
To achieve the perfect consistency for your protein balls, it’s crucial to balance the dry and wet ingredients. Start by adding the wet ingredients gradually, ensuring they are well combined before adding more. This will help you avoid a mixture that is too sticky or too dry, making it easier to form uniform balls.
If you find that your mixture is still too crumbly after adding water, try incorporating a little more nut butter. This not only helps with the binding but also enhances the flavor. Remember, a little trial and error may be needed to find the right texture that works for you.
Serving Suggestions
These protein balls can be enjoyed on their own, but they can also be paired with other snacks for a more substantial treat. Consider serving them alongside a side of Greek yogurt or a small fruit salad for a balanced snack or breakfast option. You could also dip them in a bit of melted dark chocolate for an indulgent touch.
For a fun twist, try rolling the balls in different coatings such as crushed nuts, cocoa powder, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon before chilling them. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor, making your protein balls even more delightful.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different nut butter?
Yes, feel free to substitute with any nut or seed butter you prefer.
→ How long can I store these protein balls?
You can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze these protein balls?
Absolutely! They freeze well, so you can make a batch and store them for later.
→ What can I use instead of almond flour?
You can substitute almond flour with coconut flour, but you may need to adjust the liquid ingredients.
Protein Balls Low Carb
These delicious protein balls are the perfect low-carb snack to keep your energy up without the guilt.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 balls
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Protein Balls
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons erythritol or your preferred low-carb sweetener
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup water (as needed)
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine almond flour, protein powder, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, and sweetener.
Add peanut butter and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
If the mixture is too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time until it reaches a moldable consistency.
Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Place the protein balls on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 1mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 6g