Name: Dark Chocolate Protein Balls (No-Bake & Low-Carb)
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup almond flour; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup chocolate protein powder (plant-based or whey); 1/4 cup almond butter (or any nut/seed butter); 2–3 tablespoons sugar-free maple syrup or honey; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons almond milk (as needed for consistency); Pinch of sea salt; Optional: mini dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts for texture

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

These Dark Chocolate Protein Balls (No-Bake & Low-Carb) are rich, fudgy, and made with wholesome ingredients that make them as satisfying as they are nourishing. With no baking required, they come together quickly and are perfect for when I need a healthy, low-carb snack on the go or something chocolatey post-workout. They're naturally sweetened, gluten-free, and packed with protein to help me stay fueled and focused throughout the day.

Dark Chocolate Protein Balls (No-Bake & Low-Carb)

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup almond flour

¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

½ cup chocolate protein powder (plant-based or whey)

¼ cup almond butter (or any nut/seed butter)

2–3 tablespoons sugar-free maple syrup or honey

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 tablespoons almond milk (as needed for consistency)

Pinch of sea salt

Optional: mini dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts for texture

Directions

I combine almond flour, cocoa powder, protein powder, and a pinch of sea salt in a large mixing bowl and mix thoroughly.

I add almond butter, sweetener, and vanilla extract to the dry mix and stir until a thick dough forms.

If the dough feels dry, I add almond milk gradually (1 tablespoon at a time) until it’s easy to roll.

At this point, I fold in any optional add-ins like mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts.

I scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between my hands to form a ball.

Once all the dough is rolled, I place the protein balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let them firm up.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 12 balls

Calories per serving: Approximately 110 kcal

Variations

I sometimes swap almond butter for peanut butter to give them a classic chocolate-peanut flavor.

For more crunch, I stir in chopped almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.

If I want them sweeter, I add a few extra drops of liquid stevia or more sugar-free syrup.

To make them even richer, I sometimes roll them in extra cocoa powder or shredded coconut before chilling.

For a holiday twist, I mix in a dash of cinnamon or peppermint extract.

Storage/Reheating

I store these protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. If I want them to last longer, I freeze them for up to 3 months and just thaw a few at a time when I need a quick snack. Since they’re no-bake, there’s no reheating required—just grab and go!

FAQs

How much protein is in each ball?

That depends on the type of protein powder I use. On average, each ball has around 5–7 grams of protein if I use a standard chocolate whey or plant-based protein powder.

Can I use coconut flour instead of almond flour?

Coconut flour is much more absorbent, so it doesn’t work as a direct substitute. I’d need to adjust the liquid ingredients if I go that route, but almond flour gives the best texture for these.

Are these good for a pre- or post-workout snack?

Yes! I like having one or two before a workout for quick energy or afterward to help with recovery thanks to the protein and healthy fats.

Can I make them nut-free?

Definitely. I replace almond flour with sunflower seed flour and use a seed butter like sunflower butter or tahini. That way, they stay allergy-friendly without sacrificing texture.

Do I need to refrigerate them?

Yes, especially if I want them to hold their shape and stay fresh. I always refrigerate or freeze them once they’re rolled.

Conclusion

These Dark Chocolate Protein Balls (No-Bake & Low-Carb) are a staple in my kitchen. They satisfy my chocolate cravings while keeping things healthy and low-carb. Whether I’m snacking between meals, fueling a workout, or meal prepping for the week, these bite-sized treats always hit the spot.

📖 Recipe:

Dark Chocolate Protein Balls (No-Bake & Low-Carb)

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 12 balls
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

These no-bake dark chocolate protein balls are rich, fudgy, and packed with wholesome, low-carb ingredients. Naturally sweetened and gluten-free, they make the perfect quick snack, meal prep treat, or post-workout boost.

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine almond flour, cocoa powder, protein powder, and sea salt. Mix well.
Add almond butter, sugar-free maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until a thick dough forms.
If the dough feels dry, gradually add almond milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the consistency is suitable for rolling.
Fold in any optional add-ins such as mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts.
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the dough and roll it between your hands to form a ball.
Place the rolled balls on a parchment-lined tray.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the protein balls to firm up.