Protein balls
Discover our almond and cardamom protein balls for a snack that's both delicious and easy to make. These no-bake treats mix chickpeas and almonds with a drizzle of maple syrup, a touch of vanilla, and dark chocolate for a satisfying crunch. Perfect for a quick snack or to recharge after a workout, these protein balls are a smart choice for on-the-go snacking.
Ingredients
|
Chickpeas, pre-cooked or canned
|
240 g |
|---|---|
|
Maple syrup
|
34 ml |
|
Almonds
|
100 g |
|
Flake salt
|
1 pinch |
|
Almond butter
|
30 g |
|
Ground cardamom
|
½ tsp |
|
Vanilla paste
|
½ tsp |
|
Almonds essence
|
2 tsp |
|
Dark chocolate, 70%
|
50 g |
Instructions
Questions about our protein ball peanut butter recipe
Wondering if you can make this recipe without a food processor, or how to store your protein balls for maximum freshness? Explore our FAQs to find answers to your top questions and ensure your time in the kitchen is as straightforward and enjoyable as it should be.
Can I make protein balls without a food processor?
What is the best way to store protein balls and how long can they be kept?
Can I use any type of dark chocolate?
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How to roll a perfectly round protein ball
To roll a perfectly round protein ball, start by lightly oiling your hands to prevent the mixture from sticking. Take a portion of the chilled mixture, about a tablespoon, and place it between your palms. Gently press and compact the mixture by rolling it in a circular motion, applying consistent pressure.
Keep your hands close together and make smooth, controlled movements to shape the ball evenly. If the mixture feels too sticky or crumbly, briefly return it to the fridge to firm up.
Creating a smooth texture
To achieve a smooth protein ball dough, ensure all ingredients are thoroughly blended. Start by processing the almonds until they reach a fine, flour-like consistency. When adding the remaining ingredients, blend the mixture until it is completely uniform, with no visible chunks. Scrape down the sides of the food processor as needed to incorporate all ingredients evenly. If the mixture is too dry, a small amount of water can help achieve the desired consistency.
Use spices for easy flavour variations
While our recipe’s cardamom and vanilla provide a warm, aromatic base, you can easily tailor the recipe to suit your taste preferences. For a hint of warmth, try incorporating cinnamon. If you prefer a zesty twist, a pinch of ginger or dash of lemon zest can brighten the flavour profile. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a touch of cayenne pepper can add a surprising kick.
Ingredient synergy for optimal flavour
Crafting delicious protein balls involves blending ingredients that work well together, creating a rich and complex flavour. Almonds bring a natural sweetness and a satisfying crunch. Ground cardamom adds a spicy fragrance that warms the taste, enhancing the almond's nutty flavour with its distinctive aroma.
Dark chocolate contributes a deep flavour and a slight bitterness that balances the overall sweetness, leading to a refined flavour combination. This thoughtful selection of ingredients ensures each bite is enjoyable and combines natural flavours that enhance each other.
Experiment with different textures
If you prefer a smoother consistency, blend the chickpeas separately, aiming for a soft and creamy texture before mixing them with the other ingredients. For a chunkier texture that offers a bit more bite, pulse the ingredients briefly in the food processor to leave small pieces of almonds and chickpeas intact.
Alternatively, if you enjoy a more rustic feel, finely chop the almonds by hand and mash the chickpeas with a fork for a coarser consistency. Each method alters the mouthfeel and overall experience of the protein balls, allowing you to tailor them to your preference.
Weigh the dough for uniform protein balls
For professional-looking protein balls that are equal in size, weigh the dough before shaping. Use a kitchen scale to measure out equal amounts of the mixture, typically around 25 grams per ball, ensuring they are shaped evenly for a gourmet look and consistent eating experience.
