Cookie Dough Protein Balls (Healthy, Low Carb)

Cookie dough protein balls are sweet, chewy and satisfying. They taste just like raw cookie dough but are 100% edible and safe to eat! Not only that, they're low carb and high protein, so you can indulge without your macros taking a hit.

 This cookie dough protein ball recipe provides a great balance of protein while also satisfying your sweet tooth.

It's really easy to make (ready in just a few minutes) and great for snacking on the go or as a pre-workout boost.

Simple ingredients like sugar-free maple syrup, almond flour, and low-carb dark chocolate make this recipe delicious and low-carb friendly, while protein powder gives these balls an extra boost of nutrition. It really is the perfect snack!

high protein cookie dough

Edible cookie dough recipes like this exist because there's something nostalgic and sweetly satisfying about sneaking bits of cookie dough (it really is the best part).

The chewy, melt-in-your-mouth texture is irresistible, and I'm just as guilty of it today as I was a kid. 

These chocolate chip cookie dough protein bites are the healthy snacking alternative of those sneaky cookie dough bites, but without sacrificing that delicious flavor.

I can't decide what's better — the fact that these are no-bake snacks or the fact that they're packed with nutrition and taste amazing.

Great as a pre-workout snack, a post-workout snack, or a sweet indulgence whenever the cravings strike, these little balls of joy are sure to be a huge hit!

why this recipe works

I think a lot of people have a hard time resisting the temptation of sweets, especially when they're trying to stick to a low carb diet.

With these tasty protein bites, you can have your cake (ahem, cookie dough) and eat it too!

The almond flour and sugar-free maple syrup keep the carb count low, while the protein powder and natural nut butter provide a good dose of protein and healthy fats to keep you satisfied and full.

We also can't forget the addition of dark chocolate chips, which add a touch of sweetness and antioxidants.

No food processor or special equipment is needed for this recipe, making it accessible and easy to make for anyone, even the kiddos! It's also customizable, so if you're dairy-free, I've got you covered!

This recipe is:

• A great snack for those on a low-carb, gluten-free, or dairy-free diet.
• Made with basic ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. 
• Packed with protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants.
• The perfect little energy bites that also satisfy your sweet tooth without derailing your health goals.
• Low glycemic and blood sugar friendly since they contain zero added sugars. 

ingredients for cookie dough protein bites

Here's a look at what you will need, including a few ideas for ingredient substitutes that will also work well.

• All-natural almond butter:  The drippy kind that requires stirring! 
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the recipe.
• Almond milk: You can use any type of milk you prefer, but unsweetened almond milk keeps the carb count low.
• Vanilla extract: Provides that classic vanilla flavor!
• Sugar-free maple syrup: I used Rx Sugar’s maple syrup as I find it has the best flavor and consistency. Lakanto's maple syrup is another great option!
• Blanched almond flour: Blanched almond flour is a good choice as it gives the protein balls that soft and chewy texture.
• Vanilla protein powder: I used Aloha’s vanilla protein powder, but you can also use your own favorite brand.
• Sea salt: The recipe uses both regular and flaky sea salt. The flaky sea salt is an optional topping, but I highly recommend it as it adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Low-carb dark chocolate: I recommend using Hu Kitchen or something similar. It's so good!

substitutions & variations

These healthy protein bites can easily be customized to fit special dietary needs or to work with the ingredients you have on hand. Here are some suggestions:

Almond butter: Swap the almond butter for peanut butter, cashew butter, or any other nut butter you prefer.

Dairy-free: Use softened coconut oil or more almond butter in place of unsalted butter. The dark chocolate chips should also be dairy-free, or you can omit them altogether.

Protein powder: Any vanilla protein powder should work in this recipe, but chocolate or peanut butter flavor would also be delicious!

Add-ins: Feel free to mix things up by adding in some chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even dried cranberries for a fruity twist.

an easy protein cookie dough recipe

This cookie dough protein ball recipe makes 10 balls, but feel free to double or triple the recipe if you want to have some extra on hand! They're great for serving a crowd, meal prep, or freezing for later.

Here's a look at how to make them but be sure to check out the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page for all of the details.

Once you've got your cookie dough, mix in the chopped chocolate or chocolate chips. 

Use a large cookie dough scoop to scoop out portions of the dough. Place each on a plate. Top with flaky sea salt, if desired. 

It's as easy as that! You can either enjoy them immediately or refrigerate for later. 

tips for best results

• The sweetness will vary depending on the type of vanilla protein powder used. I use Aloha brand which is a plant-based protein powder, but any low-carb, vanilla-flavored protein powder will work. I recommend stargint with 1 tablespoon of sugar-free syrup and then adding more as needed. 

• Adjust the consistency if needed. If the dough is too crumbly, add another splash of almond milk or another tablespoon of nut butter. If the dough is too wet, add more almond flour or protein powder.  

• For a paleo version, you can use real maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar. Keep in mind that this will add extra grams of sugar to the bites.  

how to store

Store these cookie dough balls in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 7 days. They will harden up a bit as they chill.

If you prefer the dough to be softer, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before enjoying them. 

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• Delightfully sweet, rich, and nutty, these keto tahini cookies take the classic chocolate chip cookie to a whole other level. The tahini makes them so soft and chewy, while the dark chocolate adds a depth of flavor that is pure perfection. 

• This keto brownie in a mug is just what you need on those late nights when you're craving something sweet but don't want to spend too much time or fall off track with your diet. It's quick, easy, and only takes a few minutes to make!

• Want the real deal and not just the cookie dough? Try out my Keto Chocolate Chip Cookies! They're soft, chewy and buttery, and a guilt-free way to get your cookie fix.

• Brighten up your day with these lemon poppy seed muffins! Made with coconut flour and sweetened with monk fruit, these muffins are not only healthy but also gluten-free, grain-free, low-carb, and keto-friendly.