Description
These Ferrero Rocher-Inspired Protein Balls deliver the iconic combination of chocolate, hazelnuts, and creamy indulgence with a healthy, protein-packed twist. Easy to make, naturally gluten-free, and customizable, they provide a satisfying, guilt-free snack perfect for any time you crave that rich nutty flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup roasted, unsalted hazelnuts
- 1/2 cup chocolate protein powder
- 6–8 Medjool dates, pitted
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup hazelnut or almond butter
- 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Hazelnuts: Lightly roast the hazelnuts in a dry skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes until fragrant and golden. Let them cool, then roughly chop half for coating the balls later.
- Blend the Dates and Nut Butter: In a food processor, combine the Medjool dates with your chosen nut butter until smooth and sticky. This mixture acts as the natural sweetener and binder.
- Mix in the Dry Ingredients: Add the chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, sea salt, and half of the chopped hazelnuts to the date and nut butter mixture. Pulse a few times to integrate while keeping some texture.
- Shape the Protein Balls: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into 1 to 1.5 inch bite-sized balls. Roll each ball in the remaining chopped hazelnuts to coat thoroughly.
- Chill and Set: Place the protein balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
Notes
- Use soft Medjool dates for easier blending and natural sweetness.
- Adjust sweetness by tasting the mixture before shaping and adding more honey or maple syrup if desired.
- Pulse gently in the food processor to maintain some texture similar to original Ferrero Rocher.
- Chill the protein balls well to help them hold their shape and improve texture.
- Store protein balls in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 protein ball
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Ferrero Rocher, protein balls, healthy snack, gluten free, no bake, chocolate hazelnut, energy bites