Protein balls are an absolute essential for the freezer in my house! I even have a stash in the freezer at work if I am about to dash off to a meeting and need something to get me by until my late lunch. Although they can be dangerous for people like me with zero self control when it comes to sweet treats! I tried rolling them super large so that eating one was enough although I just ended up eating a couple anyway. My limit is 3. You gotta draw the line somewhere!

They are super high in protein, packed with fiber, healthy essential fats and omega 3s and will keep those sugar cravings away and your metabolism firing. Perfect for when you are dashing out the door, get home from work hungry, need a pre dinner cooking snack or a post dinner treat on the couch with a cuppa! As long as I know I have a freezer jam packed with healthy treats I am less likely to binge on something artificial.

SALTED CARAMEL VANILLA NUT PROTEIN BALLS

2 cups medjool dates pitted

1/2 cup raw almonds

1 cup cashews

1/4 cup chia seeds

1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

1/2 cup vanilla protein powder

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 cup shredded coconut

3 TBS nut butter –  can use almond or peanut or a combination of each

2 TBS coconut oil

1 TBS tahini paste

1 tsp sea salt

PLUS: 1 cup shredded coconut for rolling

Place all ingredients in a food processor and process until combined. This will take about 3-4 minutes so persist with the blending for better results. the more you blend the more oils will be drawn from the nuts and dates and the caramel texture will form.

When combined remove blade and roll into large golf ball sized balls and toss in desiccated coconut. Store in fridge or freezer and enjoy one, two or three of these protein hits when you are craving some salted caramel sweet healthy goodness!! Perfect 3.30itis crusher which will keep your body firing until dinner!

K