This is the energy boost you need for a grueling workout. (Photo: Sarah F. Berkowitz)No-bake mocha protein balls
Eat like an Olympian with this easy pre-workout snack that's our version of a favorite of gold medal ski racer Lindsay Vonn.
This protein ball recipe is one that will take you just minutes to prepare, but can yield hours of energy when you need it most – right before an epic, once-in-a-lifetime athletic competition, perhaps?
Made with simple and highly nutritious ingredients and a touch of Mediterranean flavor, these protein balls will become your go-to snack for a pre-workout boost. This recipe is inspired by the "coffee bliss balls" prepared by chef Dan Churchill, who is Lindsay Vonn's personal chef. Vonn is a world champion ski racer who's won two Olympic medals, one of them gold.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup moist pitted dates*
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 2 ounces espresso
- 1/2 cup organic coconut flour
- 1/2 cup walnuts or almonds
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon raw cacao powder**
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom
Coating
Directions
Place first 8 ingredients in a food processor. Blend until completely pulverized, scraping down the sides as needed.
Use a cookie scoop or large spoon to measure and roll into evenly sized balls. Refrigerate 30 minutes to harden.
Combine remaining coconut flour and cardamom in a small bowl. Roll balls in them, and then serve.
Store in an airtight container for 24 hours, or freeze for later use.
Adapted from a recipe by DanielChurchill.com.
*If dates are not moist, pour espresso over them and soak for 15-20 minutes to soften.
**When cacao powder is not available, cocoa powder may be subbed. Cocoa powder is typically roasted at high temperatures to manufacture and has fewer health benefits than raw cacao – which retains the healthy enzymes of the cacao bean and contains higher levels of antioxidants.
Next Recipe
