This Healthier Nutella Protein Balls recipe comes together in about 10 minutes and is no-bake for a quick and easy snack your family will love! Switch up the nuts, protein powder, or even Nutella itself to suit your taste or use it as a ‘clean out the fridge’ recipe to get rid of odds and ends! Perfect for busy weeknights or when that sweet craving hits!
Ingredient Breakdown
Protein Powder
Protein powder is the star of this recipe. It helps create a satisfying snack that packs a protein punch! I prefer whey or plant-based protein powder for this, but you can use whatever you have on hand. Want to keep it dairy-free? A great option is pea protein or brown rice powder!
Tip: Make sure to choose a protein powder that you enjoy the taste of. The quality can really make a difference in the final flavor of your protein balls!
Coconut Flour
Coconut flour is going to give you the best texture for these protein balls. It’s light and fluffy, and keeps everything from being too dense. Plus, it adds a hint of coconut flavor that goes wonderfully with Nutella!
Substitution: If you don’t have coconut flour, almond flour will work well, too, but be sure to use less, start with 1/4 cup and work your way up if the dough needs it!
Nutella
Ah, Nutella! Who doesn’t love that creamy, chocolate-hazelnut goodness? It’s key not only for flavor but also for binding the protein balls together. You can find organic, lower-sugar, or even homemade versions if you’re looking for something a bit healthier.
Pro tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, consider using almond butter or peanut butter in place of Nutella for a different spin. It’s so versatile!
Optional Sweetener or Additional Mix-Ins
Depending on your sweet tooth, you might want to mix in a little extra sweetness! I often add a couple tablespoons of honey or maple syrup. And feel free to toss in some chopped nuts, dark chocolate chips, or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added texture and flavor.
Important: If using sweeteners, just taste as you go to find that perfect balance!
Let’s Get Cooking!
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of protein powder, 1/4 cup of coconut flour, and 1/2 cup of Nutella. Start to stir it all together until you can see the ingredients combine, this should take about 1-2 minutes.
The mixture might look a bit dry at first, and that’s okay! Just keep mixing until it starts to form a dough. If it seems too crumbly, add a tablespoon of water or a bit of sweetener, and stir again until you reach your desired consistency. Mmm!
Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about the size of a tablespoon. I find it’s usually best to make them small enough to pop into your mouth but not so small that they feel like they disappeared.
Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper as you go. This way, you can keep your surface clean and make it easy to pop them into the fridge later.
Once you’ve rolled all the mixture into balls, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving. Your family will be eagerly waiting, trust me!
Why I Love This Recipe
This is my go-to recipe when I need a little something to keep my energy up during the day! The best part is that they’re easy to make, and you can whip them up while your kids are doing homework or while catching up on your favorite podcast. (Oh, the multitasking!)
I’m a real sucker for snacks that don’t take age to prepare but still taste indulgent. And the best part is, these balls keep so well in the fridge! I love how you can use whatever you’ve got on hand; it’s so versatile!
If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my Collagen Brownie Bites, my Brookie Protein Balls, or my Lemon Blueberry Cottage Cheese Protein Bites!
Why This Recipe Works
Quick & Easy
These Healthier Nutella Protein Balls come together all in under 10 minutes, making them a perfect option for those last-minute snack needs or whenever you need a little something sweet.
Customizable
The recipe is loaded with options! You can switch out the protein powder, use different nut butters, or even add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg if you’re feeling fancy. It’s such a simple recipe that adapts to whatever you have available.
Make-Ahead Friendly
These protein balls are a crowd-pleaser that you can prep on the weekend and enjoy throughout the week. Just pop them in the fridge and grab one as you dash out the door or need an afternoon pick-me-up!
Budget-Friendly
Delicious goodness doesn’t need to leave your wallet feeling empty! All the ingredients are affordable and can often be found in your pantry. Plus, you can double or triple the recipe for larger batches!
Serving and Storage Tips
How to Serve This
Enjoy them as a snack, toss a few into your kids’ lunchboxes for school, or use them to beat those late-night cravings while giving your body some protein. They’re also great as a post-workout treat!
Storage
These Healthier Nutella Protein Balls will keep in the refrigerator for about 2 weeks, if they last that long! Seriously, I can never seem to keep my family from devouring them in a matter of days.
Reheating instructions
No need to reheat these since they’re enjoyed cold! Just grab a ball from the fridge and dig in.
Freezer Friendly
Yes! These protein balls freeze beautifully. Just place them in a freezer-safe container or bag with parchment layers between them to avoid sticking. They’ll keep well for about 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge before munching.
And there you have it! Healthier Nutella Protein Balls that are quick, easy, and absolutely irresistible. Trust me, your family will love them just as much as mine does! Let me know how they turn out for you, and if you decide to switch up the ingredients, I’d love to hear about it! Follow us on Pinterest for daily meal inspiration!
Happy snacking!
Healthier Nutella Protein Balls
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of protein powder, 1/4 cup of coconut flour, and 1/2 cup of Nutella. Stir until combined.
- If the mixture seems dry, add a tablespoon of water or a bit of sweetener and mix until well combined.
- Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about the size of a tablespoon.
- Place the rolled balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.