Vegan Coconut and Almond Protein Balls

02 May 2016

If you're following a vegan lifestyle, it can sometimes be difficult to meet your full protein requirements. Thats why I absolutely love these protein balls. In this recipe I use almonds which are a great source of plant based protein, along with pea protein powder to ensure a full protein kick in each and every bite! Pea protein is a complete protein because it contains all 8 essential amino acids in the same proportions as would whey protein powder, making it an ideal "just-as -good" source of protein for vegans. These are fantastic to snack on for a mid-morning or late afternoon snack to ensure balanced blood-sugar levels and sustained energy.

Ingredients

1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats

1 cup chopped almonds

2 servings of pea protein powder

1 cup shredded coconut

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 cup pitted dates

3/4 cup water

3/4 cup creamy almond butter

1/2 cup sugar-free dairy free raw dark chocolate (optional)

Instructions

Step 1:

In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped almonds, brown rice cereal, protein, coconut, cinnamon and salt

Step 2:

In a medium sauce pan add the dates and water. Simmer over medium-low heat until the dates begin to break down, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir the almond butter with the dates until everything is combined and smooth. Remove from heat and pour over the dry ingredients.

Step 3:

Stir to fully combine dry and wet ingredients

Pour into a 20cm prepared pan that is sprayed with non-stick coconut oil spray and lined with parchment

Press down the mixture evenly in the 20cm pan

Step 4:

Optional drizzle with melted sugar-free raw dark chocolate, crushed almonds and sea salt.

Refrigerate for at least 60 minutes before cutting. Store in the freezer. You can cut them into 8 large bars or 16 smaller ones

Enjoy!

Yours in Health Always,

Cara-Lisa

@caralishious

xoxo