Vanilla Latte Protein Balls

I would far rather make myself a healthy snack then buy protein bars and other packaged items at the stores that are aimed at the quick fix.

These lovely orbs of vanilla latte goodness are packed with protein, healthy fats and Omega 3 with a slight kick of caffeine thanks to instant espresso powder.  You can definitely leave that out if you're making for little ones. 

They're super easy to put together with help from a food processor or high powered blender. I start by putting six measure dates. The dates are soft, chewy and very much like caramel. I often eat one as a sweet snack if I'm craving something decadent. They lend a nice boost and help act as the glue in my concoction.

SIMPLE, NUTRITIOUS INGREDIENTS

A FOOD PROCESSOR MAKES IT SUPER EASY TO PUT THE MIXTURE TOGETHER

Dates are loaded with antioxidants and actually have 7 grams of fiber per serving, which is roughly 3 to 4 dates.

SIMPLY ROLL INTO BALLS, ROLL IN PROTEIN POWDER & CHILL

Flax seed meal is another power ingredient.  Loaded with fiber, protein and healthy Omega 3 fats

The cashews and almond butter provide more healthy fats and some additional plant based protein, while hemp seeds are brain boosters, help protect from neurological degeneration and are heart healthy as well.

YOU CAN STORE IN AN AIRTIGHT CONTAINER IN YOUR FRIDGE FOR A COUPLE WEEKS

All in all these balls are well rounded.   LOL get my pun?    Yes, I'm quite corny, but these orbs of protein latte goodness have zero corn and are a delight to dig into so enjoy this wholesome snack.

Vanilla Latte Protein Balls

Makes 12
6 medjool dates, pitted
1/3 cup almond butter or other nut butter
1/4 cup raw cashews
1/4 cup ground flaxseed meal, such as Bob's Red Mill brand
1/4 cup vanilla protein powder plus extra if you want to roll the balls in the protein powder (I used a vegan protein powder)
1 tablespoon hemp seeds
1 teaspoon instant espresso powder (use a bit more if you want more of a kick)
1 teaspoon vanilla (I use vanilla paste)
1/8 teaspoon sea salt


Add all ingredients to a food processor or high powered blender and blitz until well combined and the mixture sticks together well.  You can add a bit more nut butter if your mixture looks dry.  This can totally depend on the consistency of your nut butter and how fresh and sticky your dates are.


Scoop into about 2 tablespoon sized portions and roll into smooth balls.


At this point you can roll in a dusting of the protein powder or leave as is.  I place mine on a small parchment paper lined baking sheet and chill them for an hour or so before placing in a storage container.


Store in the fridge and they'll last a good 2 weeks.