Chocolate Protein Truffles

I've never been the kind of vegan who takes the "Are you getting enough protein?" commentary seriously. I've tracked my protein intake enough over the years and have found plenty of wonderful sources (including veggies, of course) that are easily digestible and readily available.

That said, the mister and I have been increasing our post-workout protein intake a lot this year, because that is when we find that we need it the most and have the most gains in our fitness. To shake up the protein smoothie routine, I've been whipping up variations on this quick protein "truffle" and it's become a favorite around here.

And protein concerns or not, isn't it always nice to eat a truffle, especially during the week of Halloween?

The protein truffles make a wonderful workout recovery snack, with over 5 grams of protein (depending on your protein powder) per truffle.

Chocolate Protein Truffles

1/2 cup almond meal

3 Medjool dates

1/4 cup cacao powder

1.5 scoops vanilla or chocolate brown rice protein powder

1 tbsp maple syrup

4 tbsp coconut oil, melted

Pinch of sea salt

Toppings to roll in - Cacao nibs, coconut, more cacao powder, whatever you like

Optional - 1 scoop of greens powder (leave out 1 tbsp of cacao powder to account for this)

Makes 9 truffles.

Combine dates and almond meal in food processor, then add 2 tbsp coconut oil, maple syrup sea salt, protein powder, and cacao powder and pulse. Then add final 2 tbsp coconut oil and pulse until the mixture becomes sticky. Roll into balls and coat in your toppings. Freeze for one hour and then store in the fridge.



I like to keep a plate of these in the fridge most of the time so that I have a quick, energizing treat or recovery snack on hand. I made one batch with green powder and one without, and I would say the difference is the green powder I used added a fruity flavor (the powder was berry-flavored). The batch without definitely tasted more like a chocolate treat. Enjoy!