Chocolate Protein Balls

I always get asked what a good snack would be or what protein bars are the best to buy. Truthfully, I'm all about the homemade. You can control exactly what's going into them and choose ingredients to really up level the nutrition. These chocolate protein balls do just that. Plus, not only are these  loaded with protein but fibre, and flavour too! ​
I've tried my share of protein powders, bars, and balls but nothing ever really seems to hit the spot. I'm not a big supporter of store bought protein bars and I'm very picky with protein powders. I've made sure to share my favourites below, just for you!

These little protein-packed balls were a life saver in the late stages of my pregnancy. I'm not usually much of a snacker but in those last few weeks I found myself really looking for more healthy snacks. I'm definitely keeping these on hand for nursing as well! 

For those of you not might not be in my certain situation, these make for a great mid afternoon snack or for pre/post workout. 

In terms of powder powders I really only recommend two types; hemp and collagen. This recipe uses both. Hemp is a plant based protein and it's also high in fibre. You can buy hemp hearts, which are coating these protein balls. Or you can buy a hemp protein powder which is a great option but I will say that's it slightly earthy tasting (nice way saying that it tastes a bit like dirt). Regardless of that I have come to like it, I am just a little more careful of what I pair it with so that I can mask the flavour slightly. This recipe also uses collagen powder which is my favourite of the two and I use it daily. It is completely flavourless and dissolves entirely into any liquid, hot or cold. I add about 1 teaspoon - 1 tablespoon to my morning coffee. It's a great way to get in extra protein but above that it's excellent for gut and joint health as well as the skin, hair and nails. Collagen is sourced from cows, so when buying you want to make sure you're buying good quality. I like the the brands, Bulletproof (found here) or Great Lakes (found here) as both as sourced from pasture-raised cows. 

Ingredients 

• 12 medjool dates (pitted)
• 3/4 cup raw sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup collagen powder
• 1 tbsp cacao powder
• 1 tsp vanilla 
• 3 - 4 tbsp hemp hearts 

Method
- Add sunflower seeds to a blender or food processor and pulse until fine
- Add collagen and cacao powder and pulse again until combined 
- Add vanilla and dates one at a time until a dough forms 
- Add hemp heart into a small bowl
- Roll the mixture into 1" balls and roll in hemp hearts to cover. 
- Store in refrigerator or freezer