Cookie Dough Protein Balls
When it comes to snacks it can be a tricky game as many people find it hard to put together a complete ball of goodness that is balanced in macro and micronutrients. Many bliss balls are jam packed full of dates which some people find hard to digest (that’s me) so I wanted to create something that is gut friendly for more people than not as they are nut free, dairy free and gluten free too!
These babies are super easy to prepare and contain an abundance of nutrients that help to heal your skin, gut and also help to balance your hormones. Take a look below to learn more about the goodness hidden inside;
Sunflower Seeds
In this recipe sunflower seeds provide the base of the balls as they provide a budget friendly and nut free alternative when compared to almond meal (used it the majority of other ‘healthy’ banana bread recipes). I love adding sunflower seeds to bliss balls as they deliver a significant amount of vitamin E, magnesium and selenium. These nutrients are essential for brain health, cholesterol, nervous system support, blood pressure regulation, thyriod health, as well as, cardiovascular disease and cancer protection.
Tahini
Also known as ground sesame seeds, tahini delivers a rich source of minerals such as phosphorus, lecithin, magnesium, potassium and iron. Did you know that one of the highest sources of calcium (surprise milk and cheese are not at the top of this list) is found in tahini which makes it a great option for our plant based friends out there. Tahini also provides a rich source of Methionine which aids in liver detoxification (goodbye inflammation).
Cacao Nibs
Cacao is one of our favourite ingredients on the planet not only for its glorious taste but also for its incredible health benefits. Cacao provides our body with a delicious source of magnesium to support energy production, improve mood, balance mood swings, help to make our skin glow via cell regeneration plus lots more.
Ingredients
1 cup sunflower meal (ground sunflower seeds)
200g desiccated coconut
4 heaped tbsp vegan vanilla protein powder (I love this one)
3 tbsp tahini
1 tbsp coconut oil (melted)
1 tsp organic ground cinnamon
A good pinch of sea salt
3 tbsp rice malt syrup/ organic maple syrup
2 tbsp coconut cream
1/2 cup cacao nibs + 1/2 cup extra to coat the balls
Create
Whizz sunflower seeds in a blender until crumbled, and transfer to a medium-sized bowl. Then, combine all dry ingredients together in the bowl.
Add in remaining ingredients and mix with a spoon until evenly combined
Wet your hands and roll the mixture into balls the size of a golf ball.
Pour cacao nibs onto a plate and coat balls in it (gently press the coconut into the balls to allow it to stick).
Place on a baking tray and in a fridge for 3 hours to allow them to set.
Place them in an airtight container in your fridge and enjoy for up to a week OR freeze them in a zip-sealed bag to enjoy for weeks to come.