Description
These Zucchini Bread Protein Balls are a delicious and nutritious no-bake snack packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, almond butter, and protein powder. They combine the subtle sweetness of maple syrup and mini chocolate chips with warm spices for a perfect on-the-go energy boost, suitable for breakfast or a healthy snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup quick oats
- ½ cup vanilla whey protein powder
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup almond butter
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup finely shredded zucchini (squeezed dry)
Instructions
- Squeeze zucchini: Place the shredded zucchini in a clean towel or several layers of paper towels and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial to help the protein balls hold together without becoming soggy.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the quick oats, vanilla whey protein powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, sea salt, mini chocolate chips, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and the squeezed zucchini. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to mix thoroughly until a thick, uniform dough forms.
- Roll into balls: Using a tablespoon-sized scoop, portion the dough and roll it between your palms to form bite-sized balls. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
- Chill and serve: Enjoy the protein balls immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up before eating. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
Notes
- Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to prevent the balls from being too wet or falling apart.
- For a nut-free version, almond butter can be substituted with sunflower seed butter.
- Mini chocolate chips can be replaced with dried fruit or omitted for a less sweet option.
- These protein balls do not require baking and are perfect for a quick, no-cook snack.
- Store in the refrigerator to keep the texture firm and fresh.
