These Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites are a fun and tasty treat! Packed with chocolate and colorful sprinkles, they look just like the goodies from your childhood.
Making them is super easy! Just mix everything up, roll into balls, and enjoy. They are perfect for a snack or a quick energy boost. Who knew healthy could be so delicious? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dates: These provide natural sweetness and bind the bites together. Medjool dates work best, but if you don’t have them, you can use dried figs or prunes as an alternative.
Almond Flour: This adds a nutty flavor and keeps the bites soft. If you’re allergic to nuts, try using oat flour or coconut flour instead. Just remember that coconut flour absorbs more moisture, so adjust the other liquid ingredients accordingly.
Chocolate Protein Powder: This gives the protein bites their chocolate flavor. You can also use vanilla protein powder if you prefer. Just add an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder to retain that chocolaty taste!
Cocoa Powder: It enhances the chocolatey flavor! If you want a lower-calorie option, look for unsweetened cocoa powder. Carob powder is a suitable substitute for a caffeine-free version.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Texture for Your Protein Bites?
Getting the right texture is crucial for these bites. First, blend the dates into a sticky paste. This creates the base for your bites. Next, when adding almond flour and protein powder, pulse gently instead of blending, so the mix retains some texture.
- If the dough feels too dry, add a tad more almond butter or a splash of water.
- If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a bit more almond flour until manageable.
- Chilling for at least 20 minutes helps firm them up, making rolling easier.
These adjustments help ensure your bites are delightful and tasty! Enjoy making them! 😊
Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 1 cup dates, pitted and chopped
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup chocolate protein powder
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp almond butter (or any nut butter)
For Coating and Topping:
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or melted dark chocolate (for coating)
- Colorful sprinkles (for decoration)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 35 minutes for chilling and setting. In just a little over half an hour, you’ll have these delightful, irresistible Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Date Mixture:
Start by placing the chopped dates in a food processor. Blend them until they turn into a sticky paste. This will serve as the base for our protein bites and will add natural sweetness!
2. Mix in Other Ingredients:
Add the almond flour, chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract into the food processor with the sticky date paste. Pulse a few times until everything is well combined, but still has a bit of texture.
3. Add Nut Butter:
Next, gradually mix in the almond butter. Blend until the mixture comes together into a dough-like consistency. If it feels too dry, no problem! Just add a little more nut butter; if it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more almond flour.
4. Roll into Balls:
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into nice balls using your hands. Set them aside; they’re going to be so good!
5. Chill the Bites:
Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray and chill them in the fridge for about 20 minutes. Chilling helps them firm up!
6. Melt the Chocolate:
While those are chilling, melt your dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Do it in 30-second intervals, giving it a stir in between until it’s completely smooth.
7. Coat the Bites:
Once chilled, dip each protein ball halfway or all the way into the melted chocolate. Let any excess chocolate drip off—no one likes a soggy bite!
8. Add Sprinkles:
Sprinkle colorful sprinkles on top of the chocolate coating before it sets. It adds the fun cosmic touch!
9. Final Chill:
Place the coated bites back on the parchment and pop them in the fridge for another 15 minutes, until the chocolate is firm.
10. Enjoy Your Treat:
Store your Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Now, enjoy these tasty bites as a healthy snack or a post-workout treat that will surely bring a smile to your face!
Can I Use Different Types of Nut Butter?
Absolutely! While almond butter is the most commonly used, you can easily substitute it with peanut butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. Each will give the bites a unique flavor!
How Do I Store These Protein Bites?
Store your Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just make sure to keep them in a freezer-safe container!
Can I Make These Vegan?
Yes, these bites are already vegan! Just ensure that the chocolate you use for coating is dairy-free as well. Most dark chocolate varieties are vegan, but it’s best to check the label.
What If My Dough Is Too Sticky?
If your mixture is too sticky to roll into balls, sprinkle in a bit more almond flour until you reach a workable consistency. A little trial and adjustment can make a big difference!
