Madeleine Shaw's raw brownie protein balls with chocolate and peanut butter recipe

Protein balls are a healthy and easy-to-make snack that will give you a boost of energy in between meals. This protein balls recipe by Madeleine Shaw, made with chocolate and peanut butter, tastes like brownies so it's not only healthy, it's also delicious! This protein balls recipe is super easy to make too. All you have to do is combine all the ingredients in a food processor to make the paste, and then shape them into small energy balls. These energy balls need to go in the fridge for at least 30 mins after to set and will then keep in the fridge for 2 weeks after you make them, so you can make a big batch of energy balls and have them as a snack for when you need a little pick me up. Protein balls can be a great pre-workout snack if you're heading to the gym, or even after, as the protein from the peanut butter will keep you full and energised. Madeleine's protein balls recipe makes 14, but you can easily double up the ingredients if you want to make more of these delicious energy balls. Madeleine says: 'Energy balls are a staple in my house, but these feel like pure indulgence. Peanuts are a good source of protein if you're a gym bunny, but I also like to munch on one with a cup of refreshing peppermint tea in the garden.'

Ingredients

• 150g peanut butter
• 75g hazelnuts or other nuts
• 200g Medjool dates, pitted
• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• 3 tbsp raw cacao powder
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• pinch of salt

Method

1. Place all the ingredients in a food processor and blitz until fully combined.
2. Take a tablespoon of the mixture and roll between your hands into a ball. Place on a paper-lined baking tray.
3. Repeat with the rest of the mixture, then pop the tray into the freezer for 30 minutes to set.
4. Remove and put the brownie bites in the fridge, ready to enjoy.