by Kristin Stephens, MS, NTP; Photo Credit: www.veganfamilyrecipes.com

Isn’t everyone looking for that quick and easy snack that’s portable so you can take it on the go with you? I certainly was!

I checked out a few different recipes on Pinterest for various protein balls but many used protein powders with questionable ingredients. Plus, I wanted to make sure it was also nutrient-dense and would provide a good balance of fat and protein with minimal sugar.

So I created my own.

Mostly I created it for my 2-year old son because I was looking for a healthy snack to pack for daycare that was also easy for him to eat. But I also really love peanut butter balls, so it’s a win-win for both of us!

This version includes a dose of healthy plant-based fats from both the chia seeds and the flax seeds. The coconut flour provides a rich source of fiber and protein, and is easy to digest- great for those dealing with leaky gut or other digestive issues.

This recipe is a snap to throw together and can easily be doubled and kept in the freezer for about a month. I use a large glass container to store the peanut butter balls with a piece of wax paper in between layers so they don’t stick together. Sometimes, I will roll out the dough, like you would a cookie dough, and use mini cookie cutters to create fun shapes. What toddler (or adult) doesn’t love a food that’s also fun to eat?!

Peanut Butter Ball Recipe
Gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan

2 tbsp chia seeds
2 tbsp flax seeds
2 tbsp coconut flour
1 cup natural peanut butter (or almond butter)
1/4 cup pure maple syrup or raw honey*

Using a spice grinder or blender with a flour blade, grind the chia seeds and flax seeds into a powder, then add the coconut flour and grind once more to combine. In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter and maple syrup or honey. Add the dry ingredients a little at a time, stirring well after each addition. Place dough in refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out. Roll into balls or make into shapes. Store the final product in a glass container in the refrigerator.

*If you’re following a low-sugar plan, omit the sweetener and reduce the dry ingredients to reach the desired consistency.

For a more in-depth conversation about how eating well can improve your health, contact Pure Nutrition + Wellness at [email protected], or call us at 844-787-3935.

Be Well,

Donna Stephens, BCN, CNHP, LDHS
Kristin Stephens, MS, NTP