Would’ya look at these cuties? Simply bursting with good looks and flavour. Such a divine combination, truly. No bake with the best texture! Packed with protein, low in sugar, plus they are loaded with wholesome ingredients you won’t feel guilty about. That’s why I love snack balls for an amazing healthy snack or after dinner sweet treat.
Confession: I’ve made three batches of these in the past three days. And they are all gone. They are truly that good. In our house, we almost always have protein balls on hand for snacks on the go, so I like to have different flavor options at all times. It can be difficult to get the optimum macros (protein, healthy fats and healthy carbs) in when you are busy.
The idea is always improve the macro balance (protein, carbohydrate, healthy fats) in what you eat. This is not about calorie counting: It’s about paying attention to key nutrients and taking in the daily recommended portion your body needs to maintain your energy levels and overall wellbeing.
Making these bad boys is an easy homemade way to get an extra boost of protein while knowing what’s inside your bar (or ball!). Plus the d-i-y approach means you save dollars as they are expensive in the stores. If you are looking and craving a sweet treat that won’t derail your healthy lifestyle? These Protein Bites are the answer!
Imagine biting into a rich and creamy vanilla-y center, enveloped in rich chocolate. These bites are not only delicious but also packed with protein to keep you feeling full and energized. Perfect for a post-workout snack, a midday pick-me-up, or a guilt-free dessert, these little powerhouses will become your new go-to treat.
These Protein Bites are a must-try, and here’s why:
The star ingredient of course, is cottage cheese. Cottage cheese is having a moment on the internet, and rightfully so. Cottage cheese is considered one of the healthiest dairy foods for several reasons:
High in Protein: Cottage cheese is rich in protein, essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall growth and maintenance of body tissues. Plus it fuels your body and keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
Good Source of Healthy Fats: Many types of cottage cheese are low in fat, making them a good choice for those looking to reduce their fat intake. Even the full-fat versions tend to be lower in fat than other cheeses.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: These protein balls contain essential nutrients such as B vitamins, calcium, phosphorus, selenium, and vitamin A, all of which play vital roles in maintaining health.
Good for Bone Health: Cottage cheese’s high calcium and phosphorus levels help strengthen bones and help prevent osteoporosis.
Supports Weight Management: Due to its high protein content and low-calorie count, cottage cheese can be quite satiating, helping to reduce cravings and overall calorie intake and supporting weight management.
Why you will love these bites:
Lower in Sugar: Compared to traditional desserts, these bites are lower in sugar and refined carbs.
Provides Sustained Energy: Healthy fats and protein contribute to sustained energy levels throughout the day.
Easy to Make: Requires minimal effort and no baking!
Delicious Flavor: The combination of cashews, honey and vanilla along with white and dark chocolate is a winning combination for a reason.
Customizable: Easily adaptable to your dietary needs and preferences.
Perfect Snack: Ideal for curbing sweet cravings without the guilt.
You will find these deliciously nutritious little bites are just the ticket when you are heading out the door or in need of a quick pick-me-up! They are energising, surprisingly filling and a great source of protein.
Snack right with these simple and easy to make protein balls. They are full of taste and sure to keep you full in between meals. A snack the whole family is sure to love.
Cottage Cheese Protein Bites
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup cashew (or any other nut) butter
- 1/4 cup almond flour or oat flour (oats blended to a flour)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 scoop protein or collagen peptides powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
White Chocolate Coating
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Chocolate Drizzle – Optional
- 1/4 cup milk or dark chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
Toppings Optional
- Shaved chocolate
- Chocolate sprinkles
- Chocolate chips
- Cocoa powder
Instructions
- In a food processor, blend cottage cheese until smooth. Add cashew butter, almond flour, honey, protein powder and vanilla extract - blend again until creamy.Scoop into 12 (more or less depending on your preferred size) balls and roll using your hands.Place on a parchment paper lined tray and place in freezer for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
White Chocolate Coating
- Place white chocolate chips and coconut oil in small dish and microwave with 20 second bursts stirring between each one until melted and smooth.Or use double boiler method - (pot of boiling water with a bowl resting on top) melt the chocolate chips and the coconut oil together.Once melted, remove the protein balls from the freezer and after checking they are firm and set, use two forks to hold each ball and one by one, dip into the melted chocolate. Roll them around until fully coated, then place back on the parchment lined tray.Or hold each one with a fork over the melted chocolate and spoon it over letting the excess drip back into the bowl.
Chocolate Drizzle Optional
- Melt the milk or dark chocolate in the same way you did the white chocolate and once melted drizzle over the protein balls with a spoon.Add any toppings while the chocolate is wet so it sticks. Place back in freezer or fridge for 15 minutes until chocolate is set.Store in fridge for up to 1 week or freezer for up to 3 months.
If you are looking for more delicious, healthy, protein-rich, no bake desserts and treats to help you reach your health, wellness and fitness goals, you will love my collection here: Blended Bites
