Chocolate Chickpea Protein Balls

Protein balls are on repeat in my house. They are an easy to make healthy snack that my kids beg for, and I can’t help but try to make them even healthier each time. Only recently did I start experimenting with chickpeas, and I can say with certainty that they are a game-changer! The consistency of the chickpeas helps to bind the balls, all while boosting the nutritional value. If you are looking for a guilt-free, delicious, chocolatey, nutrient-packed snack that is both oil and refined sugar-free, look no further! Did I mention they have chickpeas in them?!

Chocolate Chickpea Protein Balls

Ingredients

• 1 cup of oats
• 2/3 of a cup of nut or seed butter*
• 10-12 (approximately 1 cup) of Medjool dates (pits removed)
• 1 cup of cooked (such as canned) chickpeas
• 4 tablespoons cocoa powder
• ½ cup of finely chopped walnuts (or pecans)
• 1/3 cup of shredded coconut
• 2 tablespoons of ground flax seed
• 2 tablespoons of hemp hearts
• 1/4 cup of cacao nibs
• Optional: salt, protein powder, sesame seeds, additional nuts/seeds, raisins

* Or process your own nuts or seeds until creamy (I did this with pumpkin seeds and omitted the walnuts for a nut-free version for school lunches)

Instructions

• Process the oats into desired consistency (I like them somewhat coarse) and place them in a large bowl.
• Process the walnuts (or other nuts of choice) into small pieces. Add to the bowl.
• Process the dates, nut butter, chickpeas and cocoa powder until smooth. Add to the bowl.
• Add the coconut, flax, hemp hearts, cacao nibs and any other add-ins to the bowl.
• Mix until everything is well incorporated, using your hands as needed. If the dough is too sticky add extra oats, coconut or seeds. If the dough is too dry add more nut butter or a splash of honey or maple syrup.
• Place the bowl in the fridge for 30+ minutes.
• Use your hands to form the dough into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter.
• Refrigerate the balls in an airtight container for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Makes ~30 balls (depending on size)

Enjoy!

If you make these please comment and let me know what you think!