These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Protein Balls are a delightful treat for any time of day. They’re filled with sweet, creamy flavors that will satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt. Packed with protein, they’re perfect for a quick snack, after-school treat, or a pre-workout boost. Plus, they’re easy to make, making them a great option for busy families.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

These protein balls are not only delicious but also super easy to make. Homemade snacks like these are great because they use everyday ingredients and come together quickly. The kids will love them, and you’ll appreciate the nutritious boost. They can be stored in the fridge for a sweet treat anytime!

How to Make These Protein Balls

Making these bites is straightforward and fun! You’ll mix together dry and wet ingredients, combine them, and shape the mixture into balls. After a bit of chilling, they’re ready to be coated in chocolate. No complicated techniques here—just simple steps for a tasty result.

What You Need

1 cup almond flour (or oat flour)
1/2 cup vanilla protein powder (whey, casein, or plant-based)
1/4 cup cashew butter (or almond/sunflower seed butter)
2-3 tbsp milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1 cup milk chocolate chips
1 tsp coconut oil (or vegetable oil)

Step-by-Step

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, protein powder, and salt.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, stir cashew butter, 2 tbsp milk, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine: Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well.
Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently mix in the mini chocolate chips.
Adjust Consistency: If the mixture is too dry, add the remaining 1 tbsp milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it’s slightly sticky but firm.
Shape: Roll into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined plate.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Melt Chocolate: Microwave the milk chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
Dip: Coat each protein ball in the melted chocolate, tapping off the excess.
Sprinkle & Set: Sprinkle extra mini chocolate chips on top, then refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until the chocolate is set.
Serve & Store: Enjoy chilled! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

How to Serve These Protein Balls

These protein balls are wonderful on their own, but you can pair them with a cold glass of milk or pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet surprise. They make a great after-school snack, and are perfect for post-workout recovery too.

How to Store These Protein Balls

To keep your protein balls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge where they will stay good for up to a week. You could also freeze them for longer storage; just let them thaw in the fridge before enjoying.

Recipe Tips

Make sure to mix well to combine both dry and wet ingredients.
Adjust the thickness of the dough to your preference with milk.
Replace chocolate chips with your favorite mix-ins, like dried fruit or nuts.
Chill the dough well to help with shaping.
For a milk-free version, use a plant-based protein powder and nut butter.

Variations & Swaps

Try using peanut butter instead of cashew butter for a different flavor.
Substitute the almond flour with oats for a gluten-free option.
Add in some cocoa powder for chocolate-flavored protein balls.
Use different flavored protein powders, like chocolate or cookies and cream.
For a nut-free version, opt for sunflower seed butter and seed-based milk.

FAQs

Can I make these protein balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! These protein balls can be made a few days in advance. Just store them in the fridge to keep them fresh. They’re an excellent grab-and-go snack for busy days.

Can I freeze these protein balls?
Yes, you can freeze them! Place the protein balls in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray until frozen, then transfer to an airtight container. They’ll last for a couple of months in the freezer. Just let them thaw in the fridge before enjoying.

What if I don’t have protein powder?
If you don’t have protein powder, you can simply use extra almond flour or oats. They will still taste great but will have a different texture and nutritional profile.

Can I use different kinds of chocolate chips?
Definitely! Feel free to swap in dark chocolate or white chocolate chips based on your preference. Each option will bring a different flavor.

What if the dough is too dry?
If your dough feels too dry, add more milk one teaspoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency. It should be slightly sticky yet hold its shape when rolled into balls.