Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) Recipe
Ready for a sweet treat that tastes like dessert but packs a protein punch? These Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) are an absolute game changer for anyone searching for a healthy snack that satisfies those chocolate cravings guilt-free. Made with dates, sunflower seed butter, and protein powder, they deliver all the rich, fudgy flavor of a brownie—no oven required! With a gooey center and optional dark chocolate coating, these bites are perfect for busy days, post-workout fuel, or just a wholesome afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts of making Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) is how wonderfully simple and wholesome the ingredient list is. Every component plays a unique role, from natural sweetness to creamy texture and intense chocolate flavor.
- Medjool dates: Nature’s caramel, these make the bites sweet and chewy without any added sugar.
- Sunflower seed butter: Gives the filling a rich, creamy texture while keeping everything nut-free and allergy-friendly.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash lifts up the chocolate flavor and adds a cozy homemade feel.
- Protein powder: Adds a real boost of nutrition and helps the bites hold together (feel free to use your favorite brand and flavor).
- Cocoa powder: Delivers deep, decadent chocolate flavor—don’t skimp here!
- Salt: A little pinch is all it takes to enhance every other flavor in the recipe.
- Dark chocolate (optional): If you go for the chocolate coating, you’ll get a satisfying shell that makes these bites even more irresistible.
- Coconut oil: This helps the chocolate coating melt smoothly and set up with a perfect snap.
How to Make Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo)
Step 1: Soak and Prep Your Dates
Kick things off by removing the pits from your Medjool dates, then give them a nice soak in hot water for about five minutes. This extra step ensures they’ll blend up beautifully, giving your Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) that signature chewy, fudgy base.
Step 2: Blend the Sticky Base
Next, drain your dates and toss them into a food processor along with the sunflower seed butter and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is thick and sticky, resembling caramel. Don’t worry if it clumps together—that’s exactly what you want!
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Time to level up the flavor and nutrition! Add the protein powder, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt to the processor. Blend thoroughly, scraping down the sides as needed, until everything is combined and you have a thick, chocolatey dough.
Step 4: Shape Your Bites
Scoop out tablespoons of the dough, rolling each into perfectly bite-sized balls. Get your hands a little messy here—trust me, it’s fun! Arrange them on a lined baking sheet as you go.
Step 5: Optional Chill and Chocolate Dip
You can enjoy these Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) right away, but if you’d like to add a decadent chocolate coating, let the bites chill in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. For the coating, melt dark chocolate and coconut oil in the microwave, stirring every 20-30 seconds until smooth. Dip each chilled ball into the chocolate, then place them back on your baking sheet to set.
How to Serve Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo)
Garnishes
Dress up your Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even a drizzle of white chocolate. These extra touches not only look beautiful but give each bite a unique flavor twist!
Side Dishes
While these bites are a powerhouse snack on their own, you can serve them alongside fresh berries, a cold glass of almond milk, or even paired with a little bowl of coconut yogurt for an extra indulgent (but healthy!) treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn snack time into an experience! Try packing a few in a cute jar as a homemade gift, or arrange them on a tiered dessert stand for parties. They also make fantastic lunchbox surprises or energizing road trip snacks. Just pop a couple into a reusable container and you’re set!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to a week, making them perfect for meal prep and on-the-go snacking.
Freezing
If you want to make a big batch, freezing is your friend. Pop the bites on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top bag or container. They’ll last for up to three months—just thaw a few at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
These bites are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you love a gooey center, just microwave one for about 5 seconds. If coated in chocolate, the shell will get a bit soft and melty, which is extra delicious!
FAQs
Can I use a different nut or seed butter?
Absolutely! Almond, cashew, or peanut butter all work beautifully. Just remember to use unsweetened varieties to keep things paleo and healthy.
What kind of protein powder works best?
Go for any protein powder you love—collagen, pea, hemp, or whey if you’re not strictly paleo. Unflavored or chocolate varieties both blend right in and enhance the brownie flavor.
Can I make these without a food processor?
It’s much easier with a food processor, but you can use a powerful blender in a pinch. Just be sure your dates are extra soft and blend in small batches if necessary.
Are these Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) kid-friendly?
Yes! Little ones love the rich chocolatey taste, and parents love that they’re naturally sweetened and packed with healthy ingredients.
How do I keep the chocolate coating from cracking?
Make sure the bites are well chilled before dipping, and let the chocolate set at room temperature. If you rush them into the fridge or freezer, the shell can crack as it hardens.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a snack that feels like a treat but fuels your day, Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) are a must-try. They’re simple, customizable, and oh-so-satisfying. Give them a go, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself reaching for these little bites of joy again and again!
Print
Brownie Protein Bites (Gluten Free, Paleo) Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 bites 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Brownie Protein Bites are a delicious, gluten-free and paleo-friendly snack that is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. Made with wholesome ingredients like dates, sunflower seed butter, and protein powder, these bites are easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 cup Medjool dates (about 13 dates)
- ⅓ cup sunflower seed butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup protein powder*
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- pinch of salt
Coating (Optional)
- ½ cup dark chocolate
- ½ tsp coconut oil
Instructions
- Soften Dates: Remove the pits from your dates and soak them in hot water for 5 minutes.
- Blend Ingredients: Drain the water from the dates, then place them in your food processor with the sunflower seed butter and vanilla. Blend until the mixture looks like a thick, sticky caramel.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Add in the remaining filling ingredients. Blend, stopping to scrape down the sides if needed.
- Shape the Bites: Scoop the dough for the filling and roll into balls, each about one tablespoon in size.
- Optional Chocolate Coating: Chill the balls and then dip them in dark chocolate. To chill, place the balls on a lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes. Melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil, then dip the balls into the melted chocolate and let them set.
This softens them, making them easier to blend and giving the filling a chewier texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Blending, Mixing, Rolling
- Cuisine: Paleo
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 4.5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Brownie Protein Bites, Protein Bites Recipe, Gluten-Free Snack, Paleo Dessert
