Halloween is over but no doubt some of us overdid it on the little mini chocolate bars! Maybe you still have some in your house, I emptied my bowl into the last child’s treat bag to make sure that there wouldn’t be any left to tempt me. I think my tastebuds got quite accustomed to having a little chocolate every day last week and now I’m left here craving it! So, insert a healthier treat: a chocolatey, chewy and crunchy protein ball that really satisfies.
I added mint extract to mine because I love that flavor but of course you could simply omit that step or sub in vanilla extract. I also use real cacao powder in mine, not cocoa powder which is processed at a higher temperature, therefore losing it’s nutrient value. The crunch of those cacao nibs is also so satisfying. If you are starting Christmas baking early, these would be ideal to put on the list!
Chocolate Mint Cacao Protein balls
Ingredients
- 1 cup dates soaked in hot water for 1/2 hour then discard water
- 1/2 cup all natural nut butter I used peanut
- 1/4 cup raw cacao nibs
- 1 1/2 scoops vanilla or chocolate protein powder
- 2 tbsp cacao powder
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 2 tbsp hot water depending on the texture of your peanut butter, you made need more
- dash sea salt
Instructions
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In a food processor, place dates, nut butter, cacao powder, peppermint extract, salt, and water. Blend until smooth.
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Blend in the protein powder or mix in with your hands. My food processor is small, so I use my hands to mix it all together.
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Add in cacao nibs. I use my hands to get them well incorporated.
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Roll into balls. If mixture won't roll well, add in water, 1 tbsp at a time. If mixture is too wet to hold together, add in more protein powder.
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Makes about 20 small balls. Store in the freezer.
