Protein Packed Snack Balls

Since trying to get fit, exercise more and generally just tone up my body, one thing I am increasing in my diet is the amount of protein I consume as it is great in aiding muscle building/recovery. I'm trying to incorperate this not only in my meals but my snacks too.

One of the latest crazes that I've seen is protein/energy balls. These small circular snacks can be made in all sorts of flavours, are generally low in calories and certainly pack a punch when it comes to the amount of protein they can contain.

Having searched high and low for the perfect recipe, I've been experimenting with plenty of ingredients and I think I have come up with a recipe that is not only delicious but quick and easy to make too. Even better, there is no baking involved so you can start snacking as soon as they are made.

These snacks are perfect for anyone wanting a protein boost after a good workout but they are also great for kids to snack on too as not only are they protein rich but they are full of fibre and antioxidants too so will benefit anyone wanting to eat them.

Ingredients

* 1 cup of rolled oats
* 1/2 cup of almond butter
* 1/4 cup of maple syrup (can use honey instead)
* 1 tbsp coconut oil
* 1 tbsp chia seeds
* 2 tbsp flax seed (linseed)
* 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
* 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder
* 3 tbsp dried fruit n seed mix
* desiccated coconut for rolling

Preparation

* In a large bowl mix together all of the above ingredients (except the coconut), making sure everything is well combined.

* Pop in the fridge for half hour to allow the mixture to firm up a little.

* Then roll your mixture into small balls, this should make around 20 protein balls.

* You can leave them as they are at this point, I however prefer to roll them in a little desiccated coconut as it makes them a little less sticky to hold.

* Store your protein balls in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. These will last for around a week.

Like any recipe, you can change/adapt as you see fit. The almond butter could be switched for peanut butter and the dried fruit could be taken out and replaced by chopped nuts or if you have a sweet tooth why not add in some chocolate?

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