Coconut Protein Balls (Paleo, Keto, Vegan)

These 3 ingredient Coconut Protein Balls are easy to make, low carb, Paleo, Keto and Vegan.  They contain beet root powder for added nutrition and a fun pop of color.

I haven't made a protein ball recipe in quite some time.  Not sure why, as I love them!  Plus, protein balls are such a quick, easy and convenient snack to have on hand.

I love stashing them in the freezer and grabbing one (or three) when that afternoon hunger strikes.  Anyone else?

Anyway, after a quick browse through my pantry, I decided to experiment with this easy coconut ball recipe.  And wow!  I was/am thoroughly pleased with how they came out.

These Coconut Protein Balls are:

• Paleo
• Vegan
• Keto
• only 3 ingredients
• no bake
• made without dates
• high in protein and fat
• contain beet root powder for a boost in nutrients

This high protein ball recipe is perfect for meal prep and snacking on throughout the week.  They are low in sugar, yet taste great and are perfect for curbing that after-meal sweet tooth.

Ingredients in Protein Coconut Balls

These coconut energy balls are made with less than 5 ingredients.  All you need is:

• shredded coconut
• vanilla protein powder
• beet root powder (optional)
• water
• dark chocolate (optional)
• bee pollen (optional)

That's really it!

Protein Powder

I used Ancient Nutrition's vanilla plant protein powder in this recipe.  If you're looking to try a new protein powder then I highly suggest this one.  Their plant based proteins have great flavor, healthy ingredients and are stevia free!  (I'm not a big fan of that stevia after-taste so this fact excites me.)

I have also tested this recipe using Nuzest's vanilla protein powder and it turned out great as well.  The dough was slightly drier, but the taste was still delicious.

Any protein powder should work in this recipe.  Measure the protein powder by weight (given in grams) for best results.

Beet Root Powder

Beet root powder boosts the nutritional profile of these protein balls and gives them a fun pop of color.  This ingredient is not required, but it's a great way to use beet root powder if you have some laying around in your pantry.

Plus, beets (and beet powder) are an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, potassium, iron and vitamin C.  In addition to adding beet root powder to protein balls, I like using it in smoothies, pancakes, muffins and even as food coloring for frosting.  This whole food powder helps sweeten food but is pretty tasteless in small doses (meaning you can't taste actual beet).

How to Make Coconut Protein Balls

These coconut protein balls are made in a food processor.  I love my 11 cup Cuisinart Food Processor.  I've had it for over 6 years and it still works perfectly.

First, combine shredded coconut, protein powder and beet root powder in a food processor.  Blend for a few seconds.

Next, add the water one tablespoon at a time (you can keep the food processor running during this time).  Add more or less water as needed.  The mixture will start to clump when it's ready.  It should easily mold into a ball.  

After making the dough, use a small cookie scoop (1 tablespoon in size) to scoop the dough onto a small baking sheet or large plate.  If you don't have a cookie scoop, you may use your hands to shape the dough into a ball. 

Leave the protein bites as-is or freeze for 30 minutes and then drizzle with dark chocolate and a sprinkle of bee pollen.

These protein balls can be stored in the fridge or freezer.  They do get hard in the freezer, so let them thaw a little before eating.

More Paleo Protein Ball Recipes

Here are some of my favorite protein ball recipes from the blog:

• Cookie Dough Protein Balls
• Chocolate Covered Collagen Bites
• Paleo Banana Protein Balls

Enjoy!

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