Food: Protein Snack Balls

I like to make my own protein bars so that I don't have to buy the store bought kind that contain all kinds of added sugars and preservatives.  I am always searching for new recipes that are easy, and of course, taste great.

On my search today I found another great recipe from cleanfoodcrush: Almond Joy Protein Balls. Luckily I had enough of the ingredients on hand that I only had to make a few substitutions: I used a combination of honey and pure maple syrup (from Costco) for my sweetener, I only had vanilla whey protein powder so I used that in place of the chocolate, I added about 1/2 tsp cinnamon, I didn't have the cacao powder so I substituted Trader Joe's Unsweetened Cocoa Powder, and I eliminated the chocolate chips but did add chopped almonds.  With all that being said, they turned out great!  The recipe was easy to follow and they are so delicious. This recipe is a winner!

Here is the recipe from cleanfoodcrush:

1.  Combine in large bowl:

• 3/4 cup all natural almond butter
• 1 cup uncooked rolled oats
• 1/3 cup raw honey, pure maple syrup, or agave *Note: Sometimes I add a bit LESS sweetener & they are still WONDERFUL!
• 1 tsp vanilla or almond extract
• 2 scoops chocolate whey protein powder
• 1 Tbs unsweetened cacao powder
• 2 Tbs slivered almonds (optional)
• 3/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate/cacao chips (optional).  I love Lily’s brand sweetened with stevia found on Amazon:CleanFoodCrush.com/lilys
2.  Form into 1 inch balls.
3.  Use your hands to combine well, and form into round balls.
4.  Keep them refrigerated or frozen. – I prefer these frozen!
Recipe and Photo from cleanfoodcrush