These Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites are a tasty treat packed with chocolatey goodness! They’re little energy balls that taste just like your favorite childhood brownie.
Making them is super simple! Just mix, roll, and enjoy. Perfect for a quick snack or post-workout treat. I mean, who wouldn’t want chocolate on the go? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dates: Dates are the star ingredient that naturally sweetens these bites. If you don’t have dates, you can use dried figs or prunes for a similar texture and sweetness. However, they won’t give the exact same flavor.
Nut Butter: Almond or peanut butter adds creaminess. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seed butter or tahini are excellent substitutes that won’t compromise the texture.
Protein Powder: The recipe calls for chocolate protein powder for extra protein punch. You can swap it with any flavor you like or even omit it for a simpler treat, just adjust the cocoa powder for flavor.
Dark Chocolate: The coating is made with dark chocolate, which gives a nice bittersweet taste. If you want a lower sugar option, try sugar-free chocolate or dark chocolate chips.
Sprinkles: Rainbow confetti sprinkles add a fun touch! You can also use crushed nuts or coconut flakes for a different look and texture.
How Do I Get My Bites to Hold Their Shape?
One of the keys to achieving the perfect shape for your protein bites is ensuring the mixture is thick enough. Here’s how to do it:
- When blending dates, make sure they form a sticky paste without lumps.
- Add ingredients gradually to help with consistency; if it’s too wet, add a bit more protein powder or cocoa.
- Chill the rolled bites in the freezer for 10-15 minutes. This helps them firm up before coating.
Rolling them into compact balls also helps. If the mixture is too soft to shape, chilling it before rolling can make a big difference. Happy cooking!
Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup dates, pitted
- 1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter
- 1/4 cup chocolate protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup mini dark chocolate chips or finely chopped dark chocolate
- 8 oz dark chocolate, for coating
- 1 tsp coconut oil (optional, for melting chocolate)
- Rainbow confetti sprinkles or rainbow nonpareils for decoration
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes for chilling. You’ll mix the ingredients, form the bites, and let them set in the fridge. It’s a quick and fun process!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by placing the pitted dates in your food processor. Blend them until they turn into a sticky paste. This will be the base of your bites!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Next, add the almond or peanut butter, chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt to the processor. Blend everything together until it forms a thick dough. It should be well combined and easy to handle.
3. Add Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips or chopped chocolate by hand. This adds little bursts of chocolate flavor in every bite!
4. Shape the Bites:
Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined tray. To help them firm up, pop them in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Melt the Chocolate:
While the bites are chilling, melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until it’s smooth and melted.
6. Coat the Bites:
Once the bites are chilled, take them out from the freezer. Using a fork or dipping tool, carefully dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring they’re coated evenly. Return them to the parchment paper.
7. Add the Sparkle:
Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle your rainbow confetti sprinkles on top—this is what makes them cosmic!
8. Chill Again:
To let the chocolate harden, place the coated bites in the fridge for 20-30 minutes. This will ensure they have the right texture.
9. Store and Enjoy:
Once hardened, store the Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites in an airtight container in the fridge. These bites are best enjoyed chilled!
Now you have delicious, protein-packed treats that are perfect for snacking! With their chocolatey flavor and fun appearance, they’ll remind you of cosmic brownies but are so much healthier!
Can I Use Other Nut Butters?
Absolutely! If you’re allergic to nuts, sunflower seed butter or tahini are great alternatives that will still keep the consistency similar.
How Do I Make These Bites Vegan?
To make these bites vegan, just ensure you’re using plant-based protein powder and dark chocolate that’s dairy-free. Many brands offer suitable options!
How Can I Store These Protein Bites?
Store the Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to a week, or you can freeze them for longer storage!
Can I Substitute Dates with Something Else?
Yes! If you don’t have dates, you can use dried figs or prunes. Just note that it might change the flavor slightly, but they’ll still provide a great sweetness and texture.