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5-Ingredient Protein Balls (Low Sugar, Grain-Free)

Bowls of our simple low sugar grain-free protein balls

Bowl piled high with our grain-free, low sugar Protein Balls made with 5 simple ingredients

One of my favorite restaurants in Portland is Harlow. Sometimes I go for brunch and while waiting in line, I eye the raw and baked treats on the counter. One of my favorite treats is something called an “almond butter protein sphere.” Um, hello? Could there be a more perfect name for a pre-brunch snack? I think not.

Consider this my inspired take on a nutty protein ball.

My favorite part? They’re grain-free, low sugar (sweetened with just a few dates), and incredibly simple to make. Shall we?

Cutting board with almond butter, dates, hemp seeds, chia seeds, and protein powder for making Protein Balls

These 5-ingredient bites are made entirely in the food processor and require ingredients you likely have on hand right now!

Nut butter is mixed with chia seeds, hemp seeds, a bit of protein powder (recommendations below), and a couple dates to keep these low sugar and naturally sweetened.

Food processor filled with ingredients for making our grain-free Protein Balls for a low sugar snack

Chia seeds offer plenty of calcium, fiber, and magnesium. Hemp seeds are high in protein, essential amino acids, and omega-3 fatty acids. And dates are naturally high in fiber, potassium, and vitamin B6.

All of these good-for-you ingredients combine to make one seriously nutritious snack.

Food processor with freshly processed dough for our simple Protein Balls recipe

Once mixed, it’s time to roll! You can roll these and enjoy immediately, but I suggest chilling them in the freezer then topping with melted dark chocolate, hemp seeds, or shredded coconut. So delicious!

Blue tray filled with Protein Balls topped with melted chocolate and hemp seeds

We hope you LOVE these bites! They’re:

Tender
Perfectly sweet
Crunchy
Customizable
Quick & easy
& SO tasty

These would make the PERFECT snack to have on hand when you need a quick boost of energy — each bite contains 6 grams of protein! I’ve been enjoying one after my morning workout, but they’d make a delicious pre-workout snack as well. They’re also ideal for travel, road trips, kid lunches, and more!

Into snack bites? Check out our No-Bake Chocolate Cake Bites, Golden Milk Energy Bites, PB&J Energy Bites, Dark Chocolate Hemp Energy Bites, and Peanut Butter Cup Energy Bites.

If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo #minimalistbaker on Instagram. Cheers, friends!

Bowl piled high with gluten-free Protein Balls topped with dark chocolate and shredded coconut

Print
Bowl piled high with our grain-free, low sugar Protein Balls topped with chocolate
4.64 from 25 votes

5-Ingredient Protein Balls (Low Sugar, Grain-Free)

5-Ingredient Protein Balls make the perfect low sugar, grain-free snack that’s high in protein and incredibly delicious! Customizable depending on what protein powder you use. Just 20 minutes and 1 food processor required!

Author: Minimalist Baker
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 20 (Balls)
Category: Snack
Cuisine: Grain-Free, Snack, Vegan
Freezer Friendly 1 month
Does it keep? 2 Weeks

Ingredients

US Customary - Metric

PROTEIN BALLS

  • 1 cup nut butter (we like almond, peanut, cashew, or sunflower)
  • 3-5 pitted medjool dates* (add more for sweeter bites)
  • 2/3 cup hemp seeds
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds (or sub other seeds, such as sesame or flax)
  • 3-4 Tbsp protein powder* (vanilla, flavored, or chocolate — or other flavor of choice)

FOR TOPPING optional

  • Melted dark chocolate (dairy-free as needed — we like Enjoy Life)
  • Hemp seeds
  • Desiccated coconut
  • Sea salt

Instructions

  1. Add nut butter, pitted dates, hemp seeds, chia seeds, and protein powder to a food processor and blend until all ingredients are well combined and a cookie dough-like texture forms (see photo). 
  2. If too wet, add more dry ingredients of choice, such as protein powder or hemp seeds. If too crumbly or dry, add a little more nut butter. NOTE: These are meant to be on the tender side, so don't be concerned if they're a little soft (they'll firm up in the refrigerator or freezer).

  3. Taste and adjust flavor as needed, adding more protein powder of choice for flavor or more dates for sweetness (if adding more dates, chop first to encourage even blending). Mix again until well combined.
  4. Scoop out rounded 1 Tbsp amounts and roll into balls (as recipe is written, ~20 // we love this scoop). Place on a parchment-lined plate or platter.

  5. Roll the balls in hemp seeds or desiccated coconut, or melt some dark chocolate in a double boiler on the stovetop, or in 20-second increments in the microwave, then spoon a small amount over the bites (all optional). Top with coconut or sea salt for added flavor (also optional). 

  6. Transfer balls to the freezer or refrigerator to chill for 15 minutes to firm up.  We recommend storing these in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer up to 1 month for best texture. They are delicious straight out of the refrigerator or freezer and tend to soften at room temperature.

Notes

*In place of dates, you could sub maple syrup to taste. Just add more dry ingredients of choice to offset the wetter texture.
*The protein powder we used was Tropeaka Lean Vanilla protein. It does contain brown rice protein. If you need to keep this recipe grain-free, choose a grain-free protein, such as Nuzest.
*Nutrition information is a rough estimate calculated without optional ingredients.

Nutrition Per Serving (1 of 20 balls)

  • Calories: 133
  • Fat: 10.3g
  • Saturated fat: 0.9g
  • Sodium: 11mg
  • Potassium: 191mg
  • Carbohydrates: 6.6g
  • Fiber: 2.6g
  • Sugar: 3.1g
  • Protein: 6g
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116 Comments 10 ingredients or less, 30 minutes or less, 7 ingredients or less, Dairy-Free, Egg-Free, Fall, Gluten Free, Grain-Free, No Bake, Oil-Free, One Bowl, Recipes, Refined Sugar-Free, Snacks, Soy-Free, Spring, Summer, Sweet (dessert), Vegan, Vegetarian, Winter

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danaHi, I'm Dana! I am a food stylist, photographer, creator of Food Photography School and author of Everyday Cooking.

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All commentsI made thisQuestions
  1. Avatar for SydnieSydnie says

    December 1, 2019 at 1:37 pm

    Is there a way to make this recipe without a food processor? I only have a high speed blender.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Support @ Minimalist BakerSupport @ Minimalist Baker says

      December 2, 2019 at 11:35 am

      Hi Sydnie, the high speed blender might work, but blenders tend to trouble blending dates. Perhaps you could chop them finely first? Let us know if you do some experimenting!

      Reply
  2. Avatar for AgciasAgcias says

    November 11, 2019 at 12:01 pm

    These are soooo good!! Great idea with using protein powder and adding that extra protein :) I used sesame seeds instead of chia – amazing taste ! Thanks for the recipe!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Support @ Minimalist BakerSupport @ Minimalist Baker says

      November 11, 2019 at 12:06 pm

      Thanks so much for the lovely review, Agcias. We are so glad you enjoyed them! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! Xo

      Reply
  3. Avatar for LisaLisa says

    November 2, 2019 at 8:23 pm

    What can you use if you don’t have a food processor? I have an immersion blender and a Vitamix.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Support @ Minimalist BakerSupport @ Minimalist Baker says

      November 4, 2019 at 10:46 am

      Hi Lisa, the Vitamix might work, but sometimes it has trouble blending dates. Perhaps you could chop them finely first? Let us know if you do some experimenting!

      Reply
  4. Avatar for MaryMary says

    October 28, 2019 at 12:41 pm

    Hi! I was wondering if there was a substitute for the dates in the recipe?

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      October 28, 2019 at 12:47 pm

      Hmm, not that we know of! You could using another dried fruit?

      Reply
  5. Avatar for CaitlinCaitlin says

    October 27, 2019 at 1:43 pm

    Would Collagen powder work instead of protein powder? These look yummy!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Support @ Minimalist BakerSupport @ Minimalist Baker says

      October 28, 2019 at 11:05 am

      It would, yes. But know that those are typically unflavored and won’t add any additional flavor or sweetness to your bites. In which case we’d add a little vanilla and stevia or more dates!

      Reply
  6. Avatar for AliAli says

    October 8, 2019 at 8:55 pm

    I made these about a month ago. When I took my food processor blade out I accidentally dropped it and caught it with my other hand cutting my finger pretty bad and right through the nerve. After I got home from the hospital I had my son put the dough left in the food processor bowl in the freezer. I wasn’t going to let it go to waste after all of that. Two words. So. Good. And you’re right, the pieces with larger pieces of dates are the best! I had to have surgery on my finger and am still healing and still a little scared of the food processor now, but as soon as I feel brave again I’m definitely making these. These and your chimichurri sauce will get me back to the food processor one day. ?Thanks for all the great recipes!!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      October 9, 2019 at 11:31 am

      omg Ali that’s intense. Thanks for sharing. I’m glad you’re OK! Be careful next time!

      Reply
  7. Avatar for Karen McDonaldKaren McDonald says

    September 27, 2019 at 2:18 pm

    I gave this a 5 ? rating because it turned out exactly as shown but tasted even better than expected. I added half chia, half sunflower seeds, plus a drizzle of MCT oil when it was a little drier than I liked. I also used 10 dates because I doubled the recipe, which did make it a little challenging to ensure it mixed properly. I rolled in chopped peanuts, vegan mini chocolate chips, natural cocoa, unsweetened coconut, and flaked maple syrup. Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Support @ Minimalist BakerSupport @ Minimalist Baker says

      September 30, 2019 at 9:27 am

      Your modifications sounds amazing, Karen! Thanks so much for the lovely review! xo

      Reply
    • Avatar for AshleyAshley says

      October 24, 2019 at 2:19 pm

      Ahh! I have MCT oil! I should have added this – mine were a bit dry.

      Reply
  8. Avatar for CaseyCasey says

    September 12, 2019 at 5:51 pm

    I used peanut butter and I didn’t have any chia seeds or flax laying around so I just used hemp seeds and did 2/3c + 1/4c instead. They are firming up now but taste great straight out of the food processor. Yum!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Support @ Minimalist BakerSupport @ Minimalist Baker says

      September 13, 2019 at 8:27 am

      Thanks so much for the lovely review and for sharing your modifications, Casey. We are so glad you enjoyed these! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! Xo

      Reply
  9. Avatar for Angela RosalesAngela Rosales says

    September 9, 2019 at 10:01 am

    These were so good! Easy to make as well. I added 2 T of oatmeal and they were delicious! The ones I dipped in chocolate (melted Enjoy Life semi-sweet) reminded me of “buckeyes”!!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      September 9, 2019 at 10:51 am

      Thanks for sharing, Angela!

      Reply
  10. Avatar for EricaErica says

    September 7, 2019 at 8:15 am

    Delicious! I made these with prunes instead of dates because I had a lot of them in my pantry. Had to change up the ratios a little bit. Will definitely be making them again.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      September 7, 2019 at 1:21 pm

      Yay! Thanks for sharing, Erica!

      Reply
  11. Avatar for JocelynJocelyn says

    September 6, 2019 at 1:19 pm

    Hi Dana,
    I just made these for the first time and they have great taste and texture. I did omit the protein powder as I don’t like to use it. I hope my 7 and 9 year old love them so I can add one to their lunch box ??

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      September 6, 2019 at 1:22 pm

      Yay! Thanks for sharing, Jocelyn! Such a fun lunch snack!

      Reply
  12. Avatar for Lynn HaslamLynn Haslam says

    September 5, 2019 at 11:01 pm

    I have made these a few times now and we love them. Sometimes I add some cocoa powder. I was so happy to have them stashed in my bag during a brutal day of airport hopping. Glad I didn’t have to eat the food on offer in the plane and airport. Thanks! H

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      September 6, 2019 at 8:28 am

      Lovely! Thank you for sharing, Lynn! I agree – they’re the perfect travel food.

      Reply
  13. Avatar for KrystalKrystal says

    September 5, 2019 at 1:55 pm

    Wonderful easy recipe! I rolled mine on hemp seeds, coconut, and walnuts. Been my go-to afternoon snack!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      September 5, 2019 at 5:18 pm

      Lovely! Thanks for sharing!

      Reply
  14. Avatar for Morna HowieMorna Howie says

    September 4, 2019 at 10:09 pm

    Can you link the scoop (1 and 1/2T) that you used to scoop the dough out of the food processor ? thxs!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      September 4, 2019 at 10:35 pm

      Added! xo

      Reply
  15. Avatar for Tanya MillerTanya Miller says

    September 4, 2019 at 5:38 pm

    We loved these! My daughter has a nut allergy so we used sunflower butter and a Vega chocolate protein smoothie powder (which is all plant based protein). Also, I had recently bought dark chocolate covered chia seeds so alternated between coconut, hemp seed and unsweetened coconut.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      September 4, 2019 at 5:55 pm

      Yay! Thanks for sharing, Tanya!

      Reply
  16. Avatar for JoshJosh says

    September 2, 2019 at 12:01 pm

    Don’t make this in a vitamix, not sure what ingredient but it really sticks to the walls. The batter tasted good, but haven’t tried it. The dough came out hard but chewy after leaving it overnight meaning so I couldn’t form it into balls in the morning. I tried to keep the vitamix on low but I still think that is too much cleaning lol.

    Reply
    • Avatar for JoshJosh says

      September 2, 2019 at 12:02 pm

      In addition I got a lot of liquid, which some had to get washed away. No big deal on the taste, but I don’t like ridding of beneficial oils!

      Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      September 2, 2019 at 12:14 pm

      Hmm, wonder if it got over-mixed? The vitamix is so powerful and tends to over-blend some spots while leaving other parts under-blended. Glad you still enjoyed the flavor! We’d recommend a food processor for best results. Find our favorite here.

      Reply
  17. Avatar for JESSICA VAN DEN BURGJESSICA VAN DEN BURG says

    August 29, 2019 at 6:43 pm

    As this recipe sits, I have to rate low. These had a very unpleasing texture, like eating almond butter from the jar with some added dryness. I was very disappointed. However,, not all was lost. I didn’t want to waste an entire jar of almond butter, so I added some raw sugar and egg and turned them into tasty, high-protein cookies!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Support @ Minimalist BakerSupport @ Minimalist Baker says

      August 30, 2019 at 12:02 pm

      So sorry these didn’t work out for you! Would you mind sharing the brand of protein powder you used? We are wondering if that could be the issue? The protein powder we used was Tropeaka Lean Vanilla protein and we would recommend it for best results!

      Reply
  18. Avatar for EmiliaEmilia says

    August 10, 2019 at 7:05 pm

    Hello! I cannot find hemp seed in my country :( any recommendations for a replacement? Since I’m tempted to make this and the bars!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      August 12, 2019 at 12:50 pm

      I’d recommend throwing some sunflower seeds, flax seeds (or pumpkin seeds), and coconut flakes into a blender and making a meal. That would be the closest swap!

      Reply
  19. Avatar for KristaKrista says

    August 6, 2019 at 7:22 am

    I will preface that I am not the most domestically inclined. The taste is great but my balls’ texture is very soft and sticky even after its in the fridge overnight. I think I need more seeds so will adjust and try again! I also didn’t have a food processor so I used my Magic Bullet which may have something to do with it as well. Overall, it’s definitely tasty and easy!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      August 6, 2019 at 1:00 pm

      Yeah! I’d say because nut butter texture varies greatly. Sounds like yours was more on the liquid side so it could’ve benefited from more seeds or protein powder! Thanks for sharing your experience, Krista!

      Reply
  20. Avatar for MaddieMaddie says

    July 29, 2019 at 6:47 am

    Can’t wait to try these! I don’t have a food processor…do you think a vitamix would work?

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 29, 2019 at 4:52 pm

      I think so! Let us know how it goes!

      Reply
  21. Avatar for Dawn LoganDawn Logan says

    July 25, 2019 at 8:17 pm

    I have made this twice in the last two weeks. Did not have hemp first time, so I made them without. Used a combo of almond and peanut butter both times because that’s what I had. This will become a staple for us. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 26, 2019 at 10:46 am

      Yay! Thanks for sharing, Dawn!

      Reply
  22. Avatar for Esther RowanEsther Rowan says

    July 25, 2019 at 7:50 am

    Hi! If I used hulled hemp seeds, would that change the recipe dramatically? Could you also explain the difference in cooking with hulled and non-hulled hemp seeds? I am new to the hemp game.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 25, 2019 at 9:29 am

      I use hulled. Unhulled have more fiber and hulled have less fiber b/c it’s just the hemp seed itself.

      Reply
  23. Avatar for SophieSophie says

    July 23, 2019 at 6:39 pm

    I got lazy so my boyfriend and I are eating this straight out of the food processor bowl with a spoon. Really tasty and filling! Thank you!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 23, 2019 at 7:02 pm

      Thanks for sharing, Sophie!

      Reply
  24. Avatar for YinkaYinka says

    July 23, 2019 at 4:27 pm

    So tender and chewy – love the texture and ease of making these compared to other bliss/protein bites. The result is very dough like and makes it easy to clean the food processor. They turned out lovely with almond butter & aloha’s vanilla protein powder.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 24, 2019 at 3:24 pm

      Agreed! They’re on repeat over here.

      Reply
  25. Avatar for KimKim says

    July 23, 2019 at 7:20 am

    LOVE these. I made exactly as is (only 3 dates, and sprinkle a little sea salt on top). I’m trying to not eat sugar or gluten and these really satisfy. They tast like a reese cup.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 23, 2019 at 8:20 am

      Yay! Thanks, Kim!

      Reply
  26. Avatar for EmilyEmily says

    July 22, 2019 at 8:19 am

    Hello! Thanks for all of your wonderful recipes ? I’m wondering if collagen peptides would work as the protein powder?

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 22, 2019 at 8:43 am

      It would, yes. But know that those are typically unflavored and won’t add any additional flavor or sweetness to your bites. In which case I’d add a little vanilla and stevia or more dates!

      Reply
  27. Avatar for Ali MartinsonAli Martinson says

    July 20, 2019 at 5:42 pm

    I usually love things I’ve made from this site, but I have to say these missed the mark. The hemps seeds make it extremely crunchy and the texture is pretty unpleasant.

    Wouldn’t make again.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 21, 2019 at 6:06 pm

      Hmm, I’m wondering if you used unhulled hemp seeds vs hemp hearts?

      Reply
  28. Avatar for AmberAmber says

    July 20, 2019 at 2:12 pm

    I just made this with Bob’s Red Mill vanilla protein powder and almond butter and it turned out great! I added a little tahini because it was on the drier side- and sea salt, cinnamon and vanilla. Yum!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 22, 2019 at 10:43 am

      Yay! Thanks, Amber!

      Reply
  29. Avatar for JanetJanet says

    July 19, 2019 at 7:23 am

    Looks good!

    Reply
  30. Avatar for EmilyEmily says

    July 19, 2019 at 6:28 am

    Harlow is also one of my favorite Portland restaurants!!! Last time I was in the area, I stayed at the Hawthorne Hostel and Harlow was right there – SO. GOOD. Fantasizing going back soon!

    Reply
  31. Avatar for Marla WrightMarla Wright says

    July 18, 2019 at 11:25 pm

    Any substitute for hemp seeds?

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 19, 2019 at 10:38 am

      I’d suggest a blend of more chia seeds, flaxseed meal, blended sunflower seeds, almond flour, and/or additional protein powder!

      Reply
  32. Avatar for Kim MichaKim Micha says

    July 18, 2019 at 7:54 am

    Delicious! I used chocolate protein powder and added a couple dashes of cinnamin. I also added a tiny bit of melted dark chocolate on top. We are going to try to keep them around all the time. Great snack item I do not have to feel guilty about!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 18, 2019 at 12:00 pm

      Yay! Thanks for sharing, Kim!

      Reply
    • Avatar for JulieJulie says

      July 19, 2019 at 2:13 am

      I don’t use protein Powder
      Do you think i could use chickpea instead
      Thanks a lot for all your great recipes

      Reply
      • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

        July 19, 2019 at 10:38 am

        You mean chickpeas or chickpea flour? I wouldn’t recommend either.

        Reply
        • Avatar for Megan BuccafurriMegan Buccafurri says

          July 22, 2019 at 6:22 pm

          Could you do almond flour or something different to sub the protein powder? Or leave it out?

          Reply
          • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

            July 23, 2019 at 11:12 am

            You can scan the comments where I’ve made several recommendations – I believe a blend of more seeds or almond flour would work. Just know that you’ll be missing out on vanilla flavor / sweetness from protein powder so you may need to compensate with vanilla extract and/or more dates/sweetener.

  33. Avatar for JenniferJennifer says

    July 17, 2019 at 5:36 am

    Does this recipe mean actual crunchy hemp seeds or the soft hemp hearts? Also, what about taking them on a hike? Do you think they would get too soft? I am planning an 8-11 mile hike and want to take a protein loaded snack.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 17, 2019 at 9:56 am

      I think they’d be perfect on a hike if you put them in a glass jar vs a plastic bag where they may get squished.

      As far as hemp seeds, we recommend hemp hearts.

      Reply
  34. Avatar for MerelMerel says

    July 17, 2019 at 2:11 am

    Last night I made an attempt at this recipe and I think I made a mistake along the way or with my ingredients. I used coconut flour instead of protein powder and used a crunchy peanut butter. I think the latter must have been the mistake as the dough doesn’t get dry enough, however much I keep adding the dry ingredients. The nut butter might be releasing new oils from the small bits of peanut every time I blend it up again?
    I can’t roll the dough into balls as it’s too sticky and it plops down whenever I get some sort of ball shape formed. It’s still very tasty though and I would hate to have wasted all those ingredients.
    Could I maybe use this for something else instead? Any ideas? :)

    I’ll definitely be trying this again with a smooth peanut butter in the future and maybe even start with less than a cup!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 17, 2019 at 9:58 am

      Sorry about that Merel! I wonder if coconut flour is the culprit? We haven’t tested that out yet.

      As for salvaging this batch, press them into a lined loaf pan, freeze, and cut into squares.

      Reply
      • Avatar for MerelMerel says

        July 18, 2019 at 12:47 pm

        That sounds great! Thanks so much! :)

        No worries, it’s still a great recipe! Do you have a recommendation for a protein ball like this that I could make, without any protein powder? I would love to try more!

        Reply
        • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

          July 18, 2019 at 1:21 pm

          Merel, what about something like this?

          Reply
          • Avatar for Merel MeuweseMerel Meuwese says

            July 25, 2019 at 1:29 am

            Those sound seriously delicious and I already have all those things in my cupboard. Thanks, Dana!

          • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

            July 25, 2019 at 9:27 am

            Thanks, Merel!

  35. Avatar for Nisha @ Honey, WhatNisha @ Honey, What's Cooking says

    July 16, 2019 at 10:09 pm

    I love the addition of hemp seeds. So darn clever. Can’t wait to try this.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 17, 2019 at 9:58 am

      xoxo!

      Reply
  36. Avatar for Deborah HansenDeborah Hansen says

    July 16, 2019 at 2:33 pm

    Really enjoyed these as a quick, portable, and energizing small bite!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 16, 2019 at 4:25 pm

      Thanks for sharing, Deborah!

      Reply
  37. Avatar for Suzanne RootSuzanne Root says

    July 16, 2019 at 10:43 am

    OMG, Yum! I just made some of these and they are so good. I hope I can get my young teen to try one and then eat them! She’s not the best eater!

    I have problems with histamine intolerance and hope that the protein powder I used doesn’t react, so far, so good! This will be a staple in my diet now.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 16, 2019 at 1:24 pm

      Lovely! Thanks for sharing Suzanne!

      Reply
  38. Avatar for CatherineCatherine says

    July 16, 2019 at 8:40 am

    Delicious! I just made these but subbed prunes for the dates because I didn’t have any in my cupboard and they turned out great. Used about 7 prunes as they were on the small side – enough to provide a hint of sweetness and the mid-afternoon energy boost I was looking for. Thanks Dana!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 16, 2019 at 1:31 pm

      Lovely! Thanks for sharing, Catherine!

      Reply
  39. Avatar for RachaelRachael says

    July 15, 2019 at 7:33 pm

    Just whipped these babies up and dreaming of all sorts of opportunities to eat them: those mornings when I’m running too late for breakfast or just don’t feel very hungry, rolling them into tiny mini bites to go over nice cream…. They’re really delicious and satisfying, two was perfect! I used half of a cup of pb2 powder, 1/3 cup of tahini, and filled the rest of the 1 cup measuring cup with water. This was a touch too much and I had to add a little more protein powder (I used orgain vanilla). I also added a touch of cinnamon and sea salt. I put the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes before rolling them out. I can’t wait to try them with alternative nut butters and protein powder flavors!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 16, 2019 at 1:32 pm

      Agreed! I do the same. Perfect for a quick snack after a workout away from home, or travel! Thanks for sharing, Rachael!

      Reply
  40. Avatar for MichelleMichelle says

    July 15, 2019 at 11:55 am

    These are really good however I did some substitutions as I didn’t have protein powder and they came out really runny. In place of the protein powder I used 5 tablespoons of coconut flour. As they still were very wet, I threw in 1.25 cups of oatmeal. They are still not firm but they do hold their shape.

    Thanks for the recipe! A fan of your website and your cookbook.
    Michelle

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 15, 2019 at 12:10 pm

      Thanks for sharing, Michelle! These types of recipes always need a little eyeballing because the freshness / runniness of your nut butter and freshness of dates will vary greatly. Sounds like you had really fresh nut butter and dates, so they just required a bit more dry ingredients. However, they shouldn’t have required that much oats. I’m wondering if you could double check your quantities on the other ingredients? Coconut flour is absorbent. I haven’t tested it in these balls, but it should’ve worked OK.

      Reply
  41. Avatar for PragyaPragya says

    July 15, 2019 at 11:21 am

    Hi,
    Any substitute for hemp seeds.
    I don’t get hemp seeds in India(atleast not easily)
    Thanks :)

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 15, 2019 at 11:37 am

      We’re thinking a blend of additional chia seeds + flax seeds, sesame seeds, or even ground sunflower seeds would be a good fit here! You could also add more protein powder as well. Let us know how it goes, Pragya!

      Reply
  42. Avatar for GabyGaby says

    July 15, 2019 at 10:41 am

    Do you think unflavored hemp powder would work for the protein? Or could it give the balls a weird taste?

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 15, 2019 at 11:37 am

      I’ve never cared for those protein powders. I think it would benefit from a protein powder that has a good flavor on its own. Our favorites being Tropeaka Lean Vanilla, Bob’s Red Mill Vanilla, or Nuzest Vanilla!

      Reply
  43. Avatar for ACAC says

    July 15, 2019 at 8:08 am

    Looks fantastic….. we moved away from Hawthorne and seriously are missing their mercy blues with tempeh (can you work your magic for a home version?). Love your website… eases the pain of moving away from the vegan garden of eden of SE PDX. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 15, 2019 at 9:16 am

      Ooh, I’ve never tried the Mercy Blues! But I will next time I’m in! xoxoxo

      Reply
  44. Avatar for KimKim says

    July 15, 2019 at 6:13 am

    So delicious!! I saw this recipe and immediately decided to make it. It was so easy to create, and everyone loved them! Highly recommend giving it a try.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 15, 2019 at 9:22 am

      Lovely! Thanks, Kim!

      Reply
  45. Avatar for CassieCassie says

    July 15, 2019 at 5:20 am

    Super simple & easy to customize with whatever you have in your pantry! I didn’t have hemp seeds, so I used a mix of ground flax seed & whole flax seed. I put 2 chocolate chips on top of each protein ball before freezing, less mess than melting & dipping into chocolate. A+! Will make again!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 15, 2019 at 9:22 am

      Thanks, Cassie!

      Reply
  46. Avatar for MelissaMelissa says

    July 15, 2019 at 3:37 am

    Hi there, do you think there’s any peanut & tree nut-free substitute for the nut butter? I’d love to send these with my son for a school snack, but at a loss for how to successfully make them nut free.

    Thank you!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 15, 2019 at 9:22 am

      I think tahini or sunflower butter would be good substitutes!

      Reply
  47. Avatar for Nathalie SmekensNathalie Smekens says

    July 15, 2019 at 2:10 am

    These look delicious! Will give them a try when I make a new batch in a few weeks!

    Reply
  48. Avatar for Amanda CowanAmanda Cowan says

    July 14, 2019 at 6:16 pm

    What can u use instead of hemp seeds? Thanks!

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 15, 2019 at 9:24 am

      I’d say add a mix of more chia seeds to compensate, along with your choice of sesame seeds, protein powder, coconut flour, or almond flour!

      Reply
  49. Avatar for GinxazGinxaz says

    July 14, 2019 at 3:36 pm

    I’m putting this aside for a while because I don’t have hemp seeds in my pantry.

    However, I have to say I adore your recipes and HARLOW is wonderful!

    Thanks for what you do!

    Warmly,
    G

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 14, 2019 at 4:53 pm

      Thanks! We love Harlow, too!

      Reply
  50. Avatar for ArleenArleen says

    July 14, 2019 at 2:38 pm

    These look delicious but I haven’t made them yet because I would like to know if there is a substitute for protein powder. I can’t eat it. Thanks.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 14, 2019 at 4:53 pm

      I’d say coconut or almond flour!

      Reply
    • Avatar for JyotiBijaJyotiBija says

      July 15, 2019 at 7:55 am

      If you sub out the protein powder, mix in an Adaptogen like maca, cacao, or ashwaganda for even more health benefits when you bite! They are all mild in taste, but the salty nutbutter and the sweet dates will mask any flavor you may dislike. You’ll nourish the adrenals, have more energy, and libido ;)

      Reply
      • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

        July 15, 2019 at 9:17 am

        Thanks for sharing! I think subbing the protein powder out entirely will make the flavor potentially bitter (especially all ashwaghanda). But let us know how it goes!

        Reply
  51. Avatar for Paul SoltPaul Solt says

    July 14, 2019 at 1:32 pm

    These look amazing! I make energy bites with peanut butter, dates, oats, and walnuts.

    I’ll have to try this next time.

    Reply
  52. Avatar for LauraLaura says

    July 14, 2019 at 12:51 pm

    Just made these beauties. Did not have chia seeds, so I subbed flax meal and sesame seeds and added a couple tablespoons of mini chocolate chips. So delicious! The batter seemed way too wet to form balls, but they rolled up with no problems. Taste great now, and will probably be even better when firm. Thanks for all of your amazing recipes and inspiration. I share your page with all my friends. I was a starving vegan before I found you! xox

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 15, 2019 at 9:46 am

      Great! Thanks for sharing, Laura!! xo

      Reply
  53. Avatar for SusanSusan says

    July 14, 2019 at 11:54 am

    Sounds like great fun! Gonna try it! How’s about a cacao version?
    Thank you so much- Susan

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 14, 2019 at 4:53 pm

      I think that would be lovely! Sub out the protein powder for chocolate protein powder OR sub up to 1/2 the protein powder with cacao or cocoa powder!

      Reply
  54. Avatar for CaitlinCaitlin says

    July 14, 2019 at 10:22 am

    These look perfectly tasty! Could I sub coconut flour for the protein powder? I have a lot of dietary restrictions right now and it’s difficult to find a protein powder.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Dana @ Minimalist BakerDana @ Minimalist Baker says

      July 14, 2019 at 4:54 pm

      That should work, but it’s more drying so start with less and work your way up.

      Reply

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