I wouldn’t call myself a “foodie,” however, I am very particular about what is in my food. Probably to the point where grocery shopping with me can be a hassle, just ask my husband. I inspect every label to see what ingredients are in the product I want to buy. If there are things in the ingredient list I can’t pronounce, I don’t buy it. I think that is an easy enough way to manage what I eat so that I am not eating a bunch of junk. I also try to buy as much local and organic foods as I can. So, most of what we buy is fresh meat and produce. Very few of the items in our house are processed foods.
However, one of my favorite processed foods is the Clif Bars, Z bar. It’s their “kids” protein bar. But I really like them because they are delicious and chewy. It’s like a little dessert, especially with the bars having flavors options such as “chocolate brownie” and “chocolate chip cookie.” Sure, I’ll get protein loaded on a chocolate brownie any day!
I got to thinking about this delicious protein bar…wouldn’t be awesome if I could make my own?! It would be great to use all natural ingredients, from my own kitchen to create this delicious treat. Well, well, well, I have made my own. I solicited the help of others, but I modified some recipes into what I call Gooey Protein Balls. It’s super easy and only takes minutes to make! Enjoy!
Gooey Protein Balls (As modified from Trans-planted)
Prepare time: 10-15 minutes
Ingredients:
- I – 1 1/2 c. Rolled Oats
- 1/2 c. Nuts (of your choosing)
- 1/2 c. Peanut Butter
- 1/2 c. Honey (or Agave)
- 1/2 c. Chocolate Chips
- 1 scoop of vanilla whey powder
- 1/2 tsp. Vanilla extract
Directions:
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Place Rolled Oats and Nuts in food processor (or blender). Lightly pulse for about 30 seconds, just to make slightly smooth.
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Remove from food processor and place in large mixing bowl. Add all remaining ingredients.
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Mix until all ingredients are integrated well. “Dough” should not be dry and have a slightly wet look/feel to it.
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Cover and place in refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes.
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Once chilled, removed from refrigerator. Form “dough” into 1″ balls. Place balls into resealable container. Keeps in fridge for 1-2 weeks.
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Eat 1-2 Gooey Balls before returning to the fridge ;)
This recipe is so wonderfully delicious and easy to modify to your own tastes. In this edition of Gooey Protein Balls I used cashews and both chocolate chips and white chocolate chips (1/4 c. each). How did your Gooey Protein Ball turn out? What modifications did you make?