Name: Black Bean Protein Balls
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 cup black beans; ⅓ cup cacao powder; ¼ cup pumpkin seeds; ¼ cup hemp seeds; ½ cup dates; ½ cup cranberries; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 4 scoops Organika collagen powder (20 grams protein)

black bean protein balls on a table with pink decorative flowers

These black bean protein balls are a nutritious and satisfying snack packed full of protein. They only take 10 minutes to make and have a delicious texture similar to black bean brownies, except you don’t have to bake them.

The black bean energy balls satisfy a chocolate craving and are the perfect snack to boost your energy levels pre or post a workout or during physical activity such as hiking. The high-protein energy bites are a great source of protein and are made without any processed oils or sugar.

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The combinations of oil and refined sugar found in many baked goods are the worst foods for insulin resistance and weight loss; thus, I formulated these black bean balls with unprocessed fats in nuts and seeds and natural sugars from dates and cranberries. You will instantly feel satiated with a quick energy boost when you enjoy these black bean energy balls.

Lately, I have been focusing on including more high protein plant foods in my diet and meals; thus, I was inspired to make black bean protein balls. Black beans, hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds, and collagen powder are all fantastic protein sources. Combining all these ingredients with dates, cranberries, and cocoa powder yields the best-tasting chocolate protein balls.

Ingredients for the black bean protein balls:

1 cup cooked black beans (canned, drained, and rinsed)
1/2 cup pitted dates
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup hemp seeds
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
Four scoops of Organika collagen powder (20 grams of protein)
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1/3 cup cocoa powder

How to make the black bean energy balls:

Blend and Mix:

In a food processor, combine the cooked black beans, pitted dates, dried cranberries, hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds, Organika collagen powder, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder.

Process Until Smooth:

Process the mixture until it forms a smooth and cohesive texture. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the food processor to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.

From the Black Bean Bliss Balls:

Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture and roll them between your palms to create compact balls. Adjust the size according to your preference.

Chill in the Refridgerator:

Place the formed protein balls on a parchment-lined tray or plate. Refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up and hold their shape.

Store or Snack:

Once chilled, your black bean protein balls are ready to enjoy! Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.

Tips and substitutions

I only used dates and cranberries to sweeten these energy balls, but if you prefer a sweeter version, you can add a touch of pure maple syrup.

I added collagen powder for an extra boost of protein, but you can leave this out or substitute it for another type of protein powder. I prefer the collagen powder due to the unflavored neutral taste.

Using a food processor to blend the ingredients yields the perfect consistency for making black bean bliss balls, as you don’t need to add any liquid. If, for some reason, your texture is too dry, add a splash of almond milk or coconut milk.

Medjool dates can also be substituted for the regular dates that I used in this recipe.

Nutritional benefits of these black bean protein balls

These black bean energy balls are packed full of vital nutrients such as magnesium which is essential for weight loss, blood sugar balance, and optimal energy levels. They also contain all the amino acids, essential fatty acids, and ample fiber; thus, these bite-sized balls are a healthy treat you can enjoy anytime you need extra energy or a quick snack.

According to Cronometer, 1/8 of the recipe (which is approximately 2 balls, depending on the size you make) contains:

208 calories
11 grams of protein
20 grams of carbohydrates
8 grams of fat
7 grams of fiber

The black bean chocolate balls are also an excellent source of many other vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B1, folate, iron, magnesium, copper, manganese, phosphorus, and zinc.

These black bean protein balls are such an easy recipe; all you have to do is measure them, blend them in a food processor, and form them into balls. Whenever you are craving sweet treats, try making these energy balls, as they are so delicious, healthy, and hit the spot.

I have been giving these to my toddler instead of granola bars when she wants a snack, and I can say that she loves them. Plus, I feel so much better about her eating these black bean balls full of protein, healthy carbohydrates, and fats. So much better than even the “healthy granola bars” I buy for her sometimes.

They are the perfect snack for anyone wanting to eat healthier, are a great post-workout pick up, and will keep you energized during physical activity. If you like these black bean protein balls you will love also love these diabetic friendly chocolate energy balls.