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Fresh Lemon Coconut Protein Balls

lemon coconut protein balls - featured image

These fresh lemon coconut protein balls with chia seeds are a quick, healthy, and tasty snack combining bright lemon zest, creamy coconut, and protein-packed ingredients for an energizing bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (90g) shredded coconut (unsweetened)
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) chia seeds
  • 1/2 cup (45g) vanilla protein powder (plant-based or whey)
  • Zest of 1 large lemon
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1/3 cup (80g) almond butter (or any nut butter)
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
  • Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Carefully zest one large lemon avoiding the bitter white pith, then juice it. Use both zest and juice for fresh citrus flavor (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded coconut, chia seeds, vanilla protein powder, and sea salt. Stir well to evenly distribute (about 2 minutes).
  3. Add almond butter, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix with a spoon or spatula until dough comes together, sticky and slightly crumbly (3-5 minutes).
  4. Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons (22 grams) of mixture and roll into tight, smooth balls. Yield about 15-18 balls. Wet hands slightly if mixture is too sticky.
  5. Place balls on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Notes

Zest lemon before juicing to avoid bitterness. Use room-temperature almond butter and honey for easier mixing. Chill balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Adjust moisture by adding water or lemon juice if too dry, or shredded coconut/protein powder if too wet. Can freeze for up to 3 months. For nut-free version, swap almond butter with sunflower seed butter. For vegan, use plant-based protein powder and maple syrup instead of honey.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon coconut protein balls, healthy snacks, chia seeds, protein balls, easy snack recipe, gluten-free snack, vegan snack option