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I’ve been trying to keep little snacks like this on hand that actually work with my body — not against it. These sweet and satisfying Protein and Fiber Buckeye Balls check all the boxes for me.
These small chocolate-peanut butter bites deliver the nostalgic flavor of a classic Midwestern Buckeye with more nutritious ingredients. These little bites have a little extra oomph of protein, fiber, and healthy fats compared to a traditional buckeye bite, making them the perfect afternoon pick-me-up snack.
There’s so much goodness in each of these small bites. They’ve got a hit of fiber from the dates, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and hemp seeds. A combination of protein powder, nut butter, and pumpkin seeds delivers extra protein, making it a great snack that helps keep you full and gives you a little boost of energy! I also love that they’ve got plenty of healthy fats from the nuts and seeds that help your body. What’s not to love?
Oh, and because they’re chocolatey and sweet, your little ones will love them too! My kids do!
Ingredients:
- Raw Pumpkin Seeds
- Raw Cashews
- Soft Medjool Dates, Pitted
- Peanut Butter
- Vanilla Protein Powder
- Hemp Seeds
- Ground Flaxseed
- Chia Seeds
- Pure Vanilla Extract
- Ground Cinnamon (optional)
- Sea Salt
- Dark Chocolate Chips
- Coconut Oil
- Flaky Salt
Step-by-Step:
Step One: pulse the pumpkin seeds and nuts
In a food processor, pulse the pumpkin seeds and cashews until crumbly, 30 to 40 seconds.
Step Two: add the remaining ingredients
Add the dates, peanut butter, protein powder, hemp seeds, flaxseeds, chia seeds, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Blend until a sticky dough forms. If the mixture seems too dry or crumbly, add 2 tablespoons warm water at a time and continue processing until it comes together into a smooth, pliable dough, 1 to 2 minutes.
Step Three: form the balls
Roll into 1-inch round balls and freeze for 15 minutes to firm up.
Step Four: make the chocolate dip
Meanwhile, add the chocolate chips and coconut oil to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20 to 30-second increments, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth (usually 1 to 1½ minutes total).
Step Five: dip the balls in the chocolate
Dip each ball halfway into the melted chocolate (Buckeye-style), letting any excess drip off. Return to the parchment and sprinkle with flaky salt.
Step Six: freeze and serve
Freeze until the chocolate is set.
recipe faqs:
Store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Yes! I love the combination of chocolate and peanut butter, but you could definitely make these with almond or cashew butter.
The next time you’re looking for a feel-good snack that’s both sweet and satisfying, I hope you’ll give these Protein and Fiber Buckeye Balls a try. Leave a comment and let me know what you think!
looking for more healthier snack options? try these!
No-Bake Almond Butter and Raspberry Cups
Protein and Fiber Buckeye Balls
Ingredients
For the Buckeye Balls:
- 1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup raw cashews
- 1 cup soft Medjool dates, pitted (10-12 dates)
- 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
- 2 tablespoons hemp seeds
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- Flaky salt, to garnish
Instructions
- In the bowl of a food processor fitted with the blade attachment, pulse the pumpkin seeds and cashews until crumbly, 30 to 40 seconds.
- Add the dates, peanut butter, protein powder, hemp seeds, flaxseeds, chia seeds, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Blend until a sticky dough forms. If the mixture seems too dry or crumbly, add 2 tablespoons warm water at a time and continue processing until it comes together into a smooth, pliable dough, 1 to 2 minutes.
- Roll into 1-inch round balls and freeze for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Meanwhile, add the chocolate chips and coconut oil to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20 to 30 second increments, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth (usually 1 to 1½ minutes total).
- Dip each ball halfway into the melted chocolate (Buckeye-style), letting any excess drip off. Return to the parchment and sprinkle with flaky salt.
- Freeze until the chocolate is set.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Food Photography and Styling by Eat Love Eats.
These are delicious! Love the texture and it’s got great flavor. I’ve been sharing these healthy treats with friends and they are delighted, too!
This came out SO sticky I couldn’t roll into balls. Any tips? 🙁
I’m sorry to hear this! You could try adding a bit more protein powder and/or ground flaxseed to give it some body (I’d start with one tablespoon at a time). You could also try chilling the dough in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes and see if that helps!
Do you have a trusted food processor that you love?
Alex, you have once again done it again, *chefs kiss*! These are sooooo good. Our whole family is obsessed! Exactly what this momma at 36 weeks pregnant needed. My only complaint is that they’re so popular in my house, they’re eaten too fast!
Could you use PB fit powder instead of smooth peanut butter? If so, how much? Thanks!
So tasty!!
Do you have a protein powder that you recommend? Thanks
I like this one from Truvani. https://a.co/d/4a8WOMz
These look so good! Is there a substitute for the vanilla protein powder? Trying to save a trip to the store if possible!
You could use collagen powder instead if you have that! Otherwise, you could just omit it but just keep in mind that the dough may be a little wetter.
Can’t wait to make these! What protein powder do you use?
I like the Truvani brand!
Is the nutrition info for 1 serving/1 ball?
yes- the nutritional value calculated here is just for 1 bite.