Reese Woods Fitness

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Peanut Buttercup Protein Bites

Looking for an afternoon snack to pick you up out of that midday slump? How about one that packs a hearty dose of complex carbs, healthy fats and protein but doesn’t skimp on flavor? Well, look no further, my friend.  

These no-bake Protein Energy Bites guys are not only delicious and nutritious, but they’re also super easy to whip up. They’re gluten-free, dairy-free and absolutely taste like a chocolate-peanut butter dream.

Every time I make these for gym events, get-togethers with friends or family, or even just for my husband and myself to enjoy at home, they are gone in no time.

Peanut Buttercup Protein Bites

INGREDIENTS:

Remove pits and allow the dates to soak in warm water for 10 minutes. Pour coconut into a food processor and blend until finely shredded then set aside in a small bowl. Combine dates, peanut butter, honey, oats and cacao powder in a food processor and blend until a smooth paste forms. Form the paste into inch round balls, then roll each ball in the coconut flakes until fully coated.  Store in the refrigerator inside an air-tight container and enjoy! This recipe makes about 12 servings.

If you want to add even more protein per serving, double the protein power from one scoop to two scoops in this recipe.

SUBSTITUTIONS:

  • If you don’t have Agave Syrup (or aren’t a fan of it), honey or maple syrup are both acceptable substitutes.
  • If you or someone in your household has a peanut allergy, other types of nut butter (like almond or cashew butter) will work just fine.
  • You can also swap in a vegan protein powder in place of a whey protein powder.
  • When making substitutions, just keep in mind that your macro count may slightly vary from this specific recipe. If you’re counting macros, just make sure to adjust the recipe macros in a macro calculator based on the ingredients you use.

MACROS PER BITE (with 1 scoop of protein):

  • Calories: 106
  • Carbs: 16g
  • Fat: 3g
  • Protein: 4g

MACROS PER BITE (with 2 scoops of protein):

  • Calories: 115
  • Carbs: 17g
  • Fat: 3g
  • Protein: 6g

Happy snacking!

All writing and recipe images copyright © 2018 Rachel Elise Weems Woods. Pro7ein Synthesis photo shared with permission by Nutrishop Columbia SC.

Originally published 8-19-15. Updated 12-1-18

About Reese Woods

Hi, there! I'm Reese, a nationally certified personal trainer and former magazine writer. Health and fitness are complicated topics, so I break down all that research into plain ol' English. I also share my own experiments, experiences, recipes and life along the way!

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Comments

  2. Patricia G. says

    These protein-packed peanut butter bites sound like they are really delicious and healthy! No wonder it is a big hit at the gym! I would like to try some myself one day.

    Reply

  8. Glenna says

    Oh yum! I love energy bites and this sounds easy to make. Protein powder scares me, but I might just have to give these a try. Thank you for sharing!

    Reply

    • Reese says

      Haha, don’t be afraid of protein powder! But you can definitely make them without it. I would substitute a tablespoon of cacao powder in place of the protein powder.

      Reply

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