Description

These Samoa Cookie Protein Balls are a no-bake, healthy twist on the classic Girl Scout favorite. Packed with protein, natural sweetness from dates, toasted coconut, and rich dark chocolate, they’re the perfect snack for meal prep, post-workout fuel, or a guilt-free dessert.

Ingredients

1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
½ cup almond butter (or cashew butter)
½ cup protein powder (whey, vegan, or collagen)
¾ cup unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted (divided)
⅓ cup dark chocolate chips (70% or higher)
2 tbsp ground flaxseed (optional, for fiber & omega-3s)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt

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Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Dates
• If dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain.
• Pat dry to avoid excess moisture.

2️⃣ Blend the Base
• In a food processor, combine dates, almond butter, protein powder, flaxseed, vanilla, and sea salt.
• Pulse until the mixture forms a sticky, smooth dough.

3️⃣ Add Coconut & Chocolate
• Stir in half of the toasted coconut and chocolate chips by hand.
• This preserves texture and adds crunch.

4️⃣ Roll into Balls
• Scoop 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll into balls.
• Coat each one in the remaining toasted coconut.

5️⃣ Chill & Serve
• Place the protein balls on a parchment-lined tray.
• Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set, then enjoy.

Notes

Nut Butter Variations: Almond butter gives a classic flavor, but cashew butter makes the balls sweeter, while peanut butter adds a stronger nutty profile.
Protein Options: Whey provides complete amino acids, vegan protein (pea, hemp, or rice) makes them dairy-free, and collagen supports joint health.
Texture Fixes: Too sticky? Add oats, coconut flour, or extra protein powder. Too dry? Add a drizzle of nut butter or 1–2 tsp warm water.
Meal Prep Friendly: Store in the fridge for up to 7 days or freeze for 3 months. Thaw for 10 minutes before eating.
Keto-Friendly Swap: Replace dates with allulose or sugar-free syrup, use coconut flour instead of flax, and coat in sugar-free chocolate.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (no-bake)
Category: Appetizer & Snack
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American