Cookie Dough Protein Balls

If you’re in need of a healthy snack, look no further than these cookie dough protein balls! These low-carb energy bites are packed with high-protein ingredients like cottage cheese, peanut butter, and vanilla whey isolate. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and will satisfy your sweet tooth without stretching your waistline!

Looking for a healthy snack on the go? Make these TikTok viral cottage cheese protein balls.

They are loaded with protein and quite delish. Don't worry! You won't taste the cottage cheese at all.

I found them to be quite addicting though!

Why you’ll love these protein balls

• Effortless to make: There are no complex steps involved in this recipe. Just mix, roll, and enjoy!
• Versatile: Cookie dough protein balls are ideal as a pre or post-workout snack, afternoon pick-me-up, or on-the-go breakfast.
• Budget-friendly: These bliss balls are made with simple, cost-effective ingredients. You probably already have most of them on hand!

What are bliss balls?

Bliss balls or power balls, often referred to as energy balls or protein balls, are bite-sized snacks crafted from an array of nutrient-dense or whole-food ingredients such as nuts and seeds.

As their name suggests, they’re made from a “blissful” blend of proteins, healthy fats, and fiber or carbohydrates meant to deliver a sustained release of energy throughout the day.

Whether you need a quick breakfast, a pre-workout boost, or a satisfying afternoon snack, these compact-yet-potent bites provide the perfect solution to an active lifestyle.

Protein balls recipe

This cookie dough protein balls recipe is a healthy twist on traditional cookie dough, incorporating ingredients rich in protein and healthy fats. Unlike classic cookie dough, these protein balls aren't just a dessert but a beneficial addition to your diet.

And the best part? They require absolutely no baking and are made with cost-effective ingredients. The balls have a soft, doughy texture similar to cookie dough, enhanced with nutty undertones from almond flour and peanut butter.

Each bite has a hint of vanilla and sweet bursts from the mini chocolate chips. You can even serve your cookie dough protein bites with an optional chocolate coating for an extra layer of decadence.

Ingredients AND substitutions

For the cookie dough balls:

• 16 oz low-fat cottage cheese, Substitute this with Greek yogurt if you prefer.
• ½ cup sugar-free maple syrup (or regular maple syrup if you aren't on a keto diet) - Honey will also work.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, Or, try almond extract.
• 2 ⅔ cups almond flour, If you have a nut allergy, try certified gluten-free oat flour instead.
• ½ cup isolate vanilla protein powder, preferably sugar-free. Any flavor of protein powder can be used.
• A dash of ground cinnamon, Alternatively, try allspice, cardamom, nutmeg, or cloves.
• ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter (preferably ‘no sugar added’) - You can also use almond butter, cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, or tahini.
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips (I used semisweet chocolate chips but you can use dark or milk chocolate. If you are on a keto diet, use keto or sugar-free chocolate)

For dipping and topping (optional):

• 1.5 cups chocolate chips (or more), for dipping (I used semisweet chocolate but you can use dark or keto chocolate if you are on a low-carb diet)
• 1 ½ teaspoon raw coconut oil
• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter, melted (for drizzling), preferably "no sugar added"
• Sea salt flakes

How to make cookie dough protein balls

1. To make the cookie dough protein balls, blend the cottage cheese, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a food processor or high-speed blend until creamy.

2. Transfer to a large bowl and add the almond flour, protein powder, cinnamon, and peanut butter, mixing until forming a homogeneous mixture.

3. Fold the chocolate chips into the dough!

4. Roll into balls. Use a cookie dough scoop as a measurement!

5. Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper and lay the protein balls apart on it. Freeze them for about 20-30 minutes, or until set.

6. At this point, you can enjoy them or dip them in chocolate.

7. To dip them in chocolate, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt the chocolate according to the instructions in the package, for about 1-2 minutes in 30-second intervals. Stir until smooth.

8. Dip the frozen protein balls into the melted chocolate, shaking off excess dripping chocolate. Place them onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate them for 5 minutes or until the chocolate is set.

9. Then, drizzle them with melted peanut butter, using a fork. Sprinkle them with sea salt flakes and refrigerate them for about 5 minutes or until peanut butter is set. Enjoy!

Useful tips for making these cookie dough protein balls

• Ensure your hands are slightly wet when rolling the balls to prevent sticking.
• For uniform-sized cookie dough protein balls, use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon as a measurement.
• Freeze the balls before dipping them in chocolate so they maintain their shape.
• Use a double boiler for melting chocolate to prevent it from burning or melt the chocolate in a microwave in 30-second intervals.
• If you find the mixture too dry, add a little more maple syrup or peanut butter.
• If the mixture is too wet, add more almond flour or protein powder. One or two tablespoons of coconut flour will also work!
• Chill the balls before serving them for the best texture and flavor.

What to serve with protein cookie dough balls

For the ultimate breakfast, snack, or on-the-go meal, pair your protein cookie dough balls with options like these:

• Healthy homemade energy bars
• Pumpkin chocolate chip muffin recipe
• Anti-inflammatory smoothie
• Air fryer hard-boiled eggs
• Reese Witherspoon green smoothie recipe

Variations

• Protein powder: Use different flavored protein powders to impart a unique taste to your no-bake protein balls.
• Fruit: Add dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries for extra bursts of sweetness. 
• Tropical: For a tropical twist, add some shredded coconut.
• Fiber: Add seeds like chia or flax for added fiber and an extra boost of healthy fats.
• Crunch: For a crunchier texture, add some chopped nuts like almonds, cashews, pecans, or pistachios.
• Vegan: Use vegan protein powder and dairy-free chocolate chips instead.
• Lower calorie: Coat your cookie dough protein balls with cocoa powder instead of chocolate for a low-sugar variation.

Protein balls vs. energy balls

While protein balls and energy balls might sound interchangeable, they each have a distinct nutritional focus. Protein balls, contain a higher concentration of protein, which is typically achieved by incorporating ingredients like protein powder and nut butter. They’re ideal after a long workout to speed up muscle recovery.

On the other hand, energy balls deliver a balanced blend of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. They’re designed to provide a steady release of energy throughout the day and are perfect for pre-workout.

Healthy benefits

Protein balls are a powerhouse of nutrition in a compact and portable form. Their high protein content supports muscle growth and repair. Plus, protein keeps you feeling full for hours, which makes them helpful in weight management.

The complex carbohydrates and fiber found in ingredients like almond flour provide sustained energy and aid in digestive health. Additionally, the healthy fats from ingredients like nuts or seeds contribute to heart health and can help absorb fat-soluble vitamins.

FAQ’s

How often should you eat protein energy balls?

The frequency of eating protein energy balls depends on your individual dietary needs and lifestyle. They are great for post-workout recovery or as a quick and healthy snack during the day. But like anything, they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Are COOKIE DOUGH protein balls the same as protein bites? 

Yes, protein balls and protein bites refer to the same kind of nutritious snack. Both have similar ingredients and are meant to be no-bake. Whether you call them protein balls or protein bites, they’re a convenient and healthy recipe that will curb your hunger and give you energy throughout the day.

Are these protein balls keto? 

No, these cookie dough protein balls are not inherently keto, but they can easily be adapted to a keto diet. Swap the regular peanut butter for a sugar-free version and ensure to use keto-friendly or sugar-free dark chocolate chips for a keto protein balls recipe. However, they are low-carb because they are low in sugar and call for almond flour!

When should you eat protein cookie balls? 

Protein cookie balls can be eaten at any time of the day. They make a perfect on-the-go breakfast, a post-workout snack to aid muscle recovery or a healthy afternoon pick-me-up.

Are THESE cookie dough protein balls healthy?

Yes, absolutely! Rest assured these cookie dough protein balls are a healthier alternative to traditional cookie dough. Not only are they packed with protein, but they also contain healthy fats and fiber, making them a nutritious choice. They can easily fit into a balanced diet as a satisfying snack.

Are protein balls no bake? 

Yes, one of the best things about these protein cookie dough balls is that they require no baking. This makes them quick and easy to prepare, without the need for an oven. Just mix the ingredients, shape them into balls, and your healthy protein balls are ready to enjoy.

Storage

If you have any leftover protein balls, just follow these simple steps to keep them lasting for longer:

• Fridge: Keep extra protein balls in an airtight container for up to 7 days in the fridge.
• Freezer: These protein balls can be frozen for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Prep ahead: You can make a batch and store it in the fridge or freezer for a grab-and-go snack during the week.

Other protein recipes to enjoy

• High-protein overnight oats
• Keto protein bars
• Protein chocolate ice cream
• Pumpkin spice protein shake
• 30 high-protein dinner meals
• 21 high-protein lunch meal preps
• Protein condensed milk recipe
• Nut-free funfetti protein cookies
• Protein cookie dough

PIN & ENJOY!