Samoa Cookie Protein Balls Recipe
Delicious and nutritious Samoa Cookie Protein Balls inspired by the classic Samoa cookie flavors. These no-bake, energy-boosting snacks combine toasted coconut, creamy almond butter, dates, vanilla protein powder, and rich chocolate for a satisfying treat that’s perfect for a quick snack or post-workout refuel.
- Author: Elias
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 protein balls 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Dry Ingredients
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut, plus 3 tablespoons (divided)
- 1/2 cup old fashioned rolled oats
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (or unflavored)
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips
- Flaky sea salt (for sprinkling on top)
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup creamy almond butter
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 large soft Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Chocolate Coating
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon coconut oil
- Toast the Coconut: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread 1/4 cup shredded coconut on a parchment-lined baking sheet in an even layer. Bake for 5 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the coconut is lightly toasted and fragrant. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.
- Prepare the Base Mixture: In a food processor, combine almond butter, maple syrup, pitted Medjool dates, vanilla extract, rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, and kosher salt. Process until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Additional Ingredients: Transfer the processed mixture to a small bowl. Stir in 1/4 cup of the toasted coconut reserved from step 1, chia seeds, and mini chocolate chips evenly throughout the mixture.
- Form the Protein Balls: With clean hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into balls about 1 tablespoon in size each. Place them on a lined baking sheet or tray.
- Melt the Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
- Dip and Decorate: Dip the bottom of each protein ball into the melted chocolate, then place it back on the parchment-lined tray. Drizzle the tops of the balls with the remaining melted chocolate. Immediately sprinkle with the reserved 3 tablespoons of toasted coconut and a pinch of flaky sea salt for extra flavor and texture.
- Set the Chocolate: Refrigerate the prepared protein balls for about 1 hour or until the chocolate hardens completely. Once set, they are ready to be enjoyed as a tasty, protein-packed snack.
Notes
- Medjool dates should be soft; if they are dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to soften before using.
- To keep protein balls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- These protein balls can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- You can substitute chocolate chips with dairy-free or sugar-free varieties to fit dietary preferences.
- Use parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Keywords: Samoa cookie protein balls, protein snack, energy balls, healthy snacks, no bake protein balls, almond butter snack, chocolate coconut balls