For those of us who live our lives on the go, we know there’s nothing handier than a midday pick-me-up: that quick little snack to get you from Point A to Point B with all the energy needed to attack the next item on your to-do list.

And today, I’m sharing one of my favorites!

These Almond Butter Protein Balls are the perfect size to throw in your bag for a day out. Whether you’re snacking between appointments or at the halfway point of a long hike, these sweet and nutty treats will fill you up without setting you over the edge.

And they’re so easy to make!

All you’ll need is a few minutes to prep the ingredients, and from there, it’s basically as simple as pouring and stirring — no oven needed!

Ingredients

• 1 cup glyphosate free oats (GF or regular)

• 1 tbsp chia seeds

• 1 scoop protein powder (I used Truvani)

• 1/2 ripe banana

• 1 tbsp almond butter

• 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp vanilla

• 1/3 cup milk (I used coconut)

The Right Oats

Oats are a nutrient-rich whole grain that serve as an excellent source of dietary fiber, making them the perfect base ingredient for a healthy and filling snack. But just like with all our ingredients, we want to make sure we’re using the best!

When shopping for oats, make sure you’re buying a glyphosate-free version like those from Edison Grainery or Just Oats. Glyphosate is a popular herbicide that is used throughout agriculture production to kill certain weeds and grasses and can be found within a lot of our produce, including oats, corn, and chickpeas. Reports have found that ingesting glyphosate can increase one’s risk for liver inflammation, cancer, leaky-gut syndrome, and more.

Power Up with Plant Protein

Protein is an essential part of a healthy diet, playing a key role in muscle repair, hormone regulation, weight management, and much more. But for many of those who are vegan, vegetarian, or lactose intolerant, finding an enjoyable source for protein can be difficult.

That’s where a plant-based protein powder like Truvani can be so helpful! 

Nowadays, many plant-based protein powders offer a complete amino acid profile, meaning that they contain all nine of the essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. But unlike animal-based proteins, the fibers in plant-based proteins (often coming from sources such as peas, soy, hemp, etc.) can lead to increased fullness and improved gut health.

Instructions

1. In a blender or food processor, combine oats and chia seeds. Blend and place in mixing bowl. Then, stir in protein powder by hand.

2. In the blender or food processor, combine the banana, almond butter, dark chocolate chips, cinnamon, vanilla, and milk. Blend until smooth.

3. Pour the mixture from the blender into the mixing bowl with the dry mixture.

4. Mix together until combined thoroughly.

5. Roll into balls and store in fridge.