Gluten-Free Protein Balls | Cashew Butter Flavor

These easy-to-make gluten-free protein balls are the perfect healthy snack! Packed with creamy cashew butter, crunchy gluten-free granola, and dairy-free chocolate, these protein balls are a delicious combination of sweet and savory. Made with natural sweeteners like date syrup and flavored with vanilla, they provide a boost of energy and protein, making them perfect for an on-the-go snack or post-workout treat. Whether you’re following a gluten-free, vegan, or refined sugar-free diet, these homemade protein balls are the ideal guilt-free snack to fuel your day.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups gluten-free granola, crushed
• ½ cup cashew butter (Spread Love)
• ¼ cup date syrup
• ½ teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract (Singing Dog)
• 1 cup dairy-free, refined sugar-free chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Crush the Granola: Start by crushing the gluten-free granola. You can use a mortar and pestle, or place the granola in a Ziploc bag and crush it with a rolling pin until it’s in smaller pieces.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the cashew butter, date syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add Granola: Stir the crushed granola into the wet ingredients. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is well combined. For best results, use your hands (wear gloves) or a rubber spatula to ensure the granola is evenly incorporated.
4. Shape the Balls: Using your hands or a meatball maker, roll the mixture into small balls. This recipe should make around 12 balls. For a smaller batch, feel free to halve the ingredients.
5. Melt the Chocolate: In a separate clean bowl, combine the dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second increments on the chocolate setting, stirring well after each interval until completely melted.
6. Coat the Protein Balls: Line a baking tray or large plate with parchment paper. Using a spoon, dip each cashew butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring all sides are covered. Place the coated balls on the prepared tray. Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of flake salt on top for added flavor.
7. Set and Store: Place the tray of protein balls in the fridge and let them set until the chocolate hardens, about 30 minutes to 1 hour. Once set, store the protein balls in the fridge for up to 7 days.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These gluten-free cashew butter protein balls are the perfect combination of creamy cashew butter, crunchy granola, and rich dairy-free chocolate. With the added sweetness of date syrup and the natural flavors of vanilla, they make for a delicious and healthy snack. Not only are they gluten-free, but they’re also refined sugar-free and packed with protein, making them an ideal choice for energy-boosting on-the-go treats.

Tips

• Ensure Even Coating: Make sure to fully coat the protein balls with melted chocolate for the best texture and flavor. If the chocolate is too thick, you can add a little more coconut oil to thin it out.
• Customize the Size: Adjust the size of the balls according to your preference. If you want larger bites, make bigger balls, but keep in mind the calorie count.
• Use a Rolling Pin for Crushing: If you don’t have a mortar and pestle, a rolling pin works well to crush the granola evenly.

Variations and Substitutions

• Nut Butters: If you don’t have cashew butter, you can substitute it with almond butter, peanut butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile.
• Sweeteners: Swap the date syrup with maple syrup or honey for a different natural sweetener.
• Add-ins: Boost the flavor by adding ingredients like chia seeds, flax seeds, dried fruit, or shredded coconut to the protein ball mixture.

FAQs

How long will these protein balls last? These protein balls will last up to 7 days when stored in the fridge in an airtight container.

Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, these protein balls are perfect for meal prep. Make them in advance and store them in the fridge for a quick, healthy snack throughout the week.

Are these protein balls suitable for a vegan diet? Yes, these protein balls are vegan as long as you use dairy-free chocolate chips and check that your sweeteners are vegan-friendly.

Serving Suggestions

These gluten-free protein balls are great as a snack, breakfast on-the-go, or post-workout treat. Pair them with a smoothie or a cup of coffee for a satisfying, energy-packed snack. They’re perfect for meal prep, lunchboxes, or as an afternoon pick-me-up!