Recipe: Simple Raw Chocolate Protein Balls

​Overview:

Raw balls are a great, nutrient dense, healthy snack!
Well usually they are, but it does depend on what is in them. With the recent increase in the number of these types of snacks I have seen numerous raw balls & protein balls being sold with preservatives, artificial sweeteners or heaps of simple sugars. The other main issue with these tasty snacks is the cost; often selling for between $4 to $6.

However; they are really simple and quick to make. By doing so you can know exactly what's in them & save yourself a coin or two.
- Below is how I make my simple raw chocolate protein balls:

Note: Raw balls are often quite high in calories for their size, which is ideal for my needs when I need a quick snack after training that will help me recover and quickly get on with my day. Feel free to customise this recipe by adding or substitute ingredients to optimise these tasty raw balls to suit your taste buds and needs.

Step 1: Buy your ingredients!

For this recipe you will need:

• 2 Cups of organic cashews
• 2 Cups of organic dates (remove pits)
• 3 Scoops of organic brown rice protein (or WPI)
• 2 Tbsp organic cocoa powder
• 1 Tbsp organic maca powder
• 1 Tsp organic ground vanilla beans
• Blender or food processor
• Mixing bowl
• Small amount of water
• Some hands to mix it all together!

*Makes ~16 balls depending on size

Step 2: Blend nuts & dates

• Put the cashews in the food processor and break them down into smaller pieces
• In a separate batch process the dates until they are a fairly smooth paste

​Note: if you have a large enough food processor you could place all the ingredients in there together, but if you only have a small processor like me, ensure you do small batches to not overheat your unit!

Step 3: Mix dry ingredients

• Place the ground cashews, brown rice protein, cocoa, maca & vanilla into a bowl and mix. This will ensure that you get even distribution of the dry ingredients. A big mouthful of maca powder in the middle of a raw ball doesn't taste the best...

Step 4: Mix in dates

• ​Add the processed dates and mix with your hands until it is a thick paste. You may need to add a little water to help it all bind together.

​Note: Don't add to much water, otherwise they'll be really sticky and not roll well.

Step 5: Roll into balls!

• Roll by hand into the size ball that you desire.
• Store in the fridge until you are ready to enjoy!

Note: if they are a little sticky or you feel like being a little fancy, roll the outside of the balls in the some extra maca or cocoa powder. You can also add bits of cocoa nibs for that extra crunch!

Enjoy!