Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) Recipe

Introduction

These Brownie Protein Bites are a delicious and healthy snack that’s both gluten free and paleo-friendly. Packed with natural sweetness and protein, they make a perfect energy boost any time of the day.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Medjool dates (about 13 dates)
• ⅓ cup sunflower seed butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup protein powder*
• ¼ cup cocoa powder
• pinch of salt
• ½ cup dark chocolate (optional for coating)
• ½ tsp coconut oil (optional for coating)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Remove the pits from your dates and soak them in hot water for 5 minutes to soften them, making blending easier and the texture chewier.
2. Step 2: Drain the water from the dates, then place them in a food processor with sunflower seed butter and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture resembles a thick, sticky caramel.
3. Step 3: Add protein powder, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt to the food processor. Blend again, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed until evenly mixed.
4. Step 4: Scoop the mixture and roll into balls about one tablespoon each.
5. Step 5: You can enjoy the bites as they are, or chill them on a lined baking sheet in the freezer for at least 30 minutes before coating.
6. Step 6: To coat, melt dark chocolate and coconut oil together in a microwave-safe dish at 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
7. Step 7: Dip the chilled balls one by one into the melted chocolate, then place them back on the lined baking sheet to set.

Tips & Variations

• For a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter is a great alternative, but almond or peanut butter can also work if preferred.
• Use your favorite protein powder—whey, pea, or collagen-based—to suit your dietary needs.
• Adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate coating enhances the flavor.
• To make bites vegan, ensure your protein powder and chocolate are dairy-free.

Storage

Store the protein bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If coated in chocolate, keep them chilled to prevent melting. You can also freeze them for up to one month; thaw in the fridge before eating. These bites are best served cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of dates?

Yes, while Medjool dates are ideal for their softness and sweetness, you can substitute with other varieties. If using firmer dates, soak them a bit longer to soften.

What if I don’t have a food processor?

A high-speed blender can work, but you may need to stop and scrape more often. Alternatively, finely chop the dates and mix by hand with a fork or spoon, although the texture won’t be as smooth.

Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 116 reviews

These Brownie Protein Bites are a delicious, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly snack perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings while boosting your protein intake. Made with nutrient-dense Medjool dates, sunflower seed butter, and protein powder, they offer chewy texture and rich flavor. Optionally coated in dark chocolate, these bites are easy to prepare without baking and make a great on-the-go energy boost or post-workout treat.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: About 12 protein bites 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Filling

• 1 cup Medjool dates (about 13 dates), pitted
• ⅓ cup sunflower seed butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup protein powder (use your favorite type, such as whey or plant-based)
• ¼ cup cocoa powder
• Pinch of salt

Coating (Optional)

• ½ cup dark chocolate
• ½ tsp coconut oil

Instructions

1. Soften the Dates: Remove the pits from the Medjool dates and soak them in hot water for 5 minutes. This softening step makes the dates easier to blend and gives the filling a chewier, caramel-like texture.
2. Blend the Base Mixture: Drain the water from the soaked dates and place them into a food processor along with the sunflower seed butter and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is thick and sticky, resembling a caramel consistency.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the protein powder, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt to the date mixture. Blend again, pausing to scrape down the sides of the processor as needed, until all ingredients are fully combined and form a dough-like texture.
4. Form the Protein Bites: Scoop out the filling dough and roll into approximately 1 tablespoon-sized balls using your hands. These form the base protein bites.
5. Chill (Optional): For a firmer texture and easier chocolate coating, place the balls on a lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
6. Melt Chocolate Coating: In a small microwavable bowl, combine the dark chocolate and coconut oil. Heat on high in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each interval until fully melted and smooth.
7. Coat the Bites: Dip each chilled protein bite individually into the melted chocolate, using a spoon if needed to cover evenly. Place the coated bites back onto the lined baking sheet to set.

Notes

• You can enjoy the protein bites as-is without coating for a lower calorie and simpler snack.
• The protein powder can be any flavor, but unflavored or chocolate works best to complement the brownie taste.
• Ensure dates are fully softened for easier blending and smoother texture.
• Store finished protein bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
• To make this recipe vegan, use plant-based protein powder and ensure the chocolate is dairy-free.

Keywords: protein bites, brownie bites, gluten free snacks, paleo snacks, no bake protein balls, healthy snacks, Medjool dates, chocolate protein bites