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5-Minute Protein Truffles

4.5

(11)

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5-Minute Protein TrufflesTina Rupp

These protein "truffles" are so ridiculously easy that I feel somewhat silly adding them to this collection. Then again, my super-simple, silly recipes are often my most popular. They are certainly favorites in my repertoire, in large part because of their fast factor, but also because of their portability and candy-like appeal. Plus, they are endlessly customizable by varying the spices, extracts, and other add-ins, or by giving them a chic coating of chia seeds, cocoa powder, or chopped nuts. Who says pretty and power can’t go together?

Cooks' Note

BAR TIPS
–If you prefer, mix up to 3 tablespoons of any of the suggested coatings directly into the dough instead of using as a coating.
–A box of these beauties makes a great hostess gift or present in general, especially to the fitness and health foodie friends in your life.
–1/2 cup all-natural, sweetened vanilla or chocolate vegan protein powder may be used in place of the whey protein powder.

BAR KEEPING
Store in an airtight container.
REFRIGERATOR: 1 week FREEZER: 3 months in airtight container; thaw 15 minutes

BAR VARIATIONS
CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER PROTEIN BALLS
Use peanut butter for the nut butter and chocolate protein powder in place of the vanilla protein powder. Add 1 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened, natural cocoa powder (not Dutch process) and 1 1/2 tablespoons water along with the honey.

MOCHA JAVA BALLS
Use chocolate protein powder in place of the vanilla protein powder. Add 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder, dissolved in 2 teaspoons warm water, along with the honey.

GINGERBREAD PROTEIN BALLS
Use 3 tablespoons dark (cooking) molasses for the sweetener and add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger, and 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves along with the protein powder.

SNICKERDOODLE PROTEIN BALLS
Add 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg along with the protein powder. Add 3 tablespoons chopped raisins to the dough before rolling into balls. Roll the balls in finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts.

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