Banana Split Protein Balls
These delightful sweet & chewy chocolate oat bites contain wholesome ingredients that are full of protein and healthy fats- and they taste just like a banana split!
whether you need lunchbox treats for your kiddo, meal prep treats to stock in the freezer, or a treat for that 3pm slump, these banana split protein balls will cover It all. they are a great way to use up overripe bananas and most ingredients you can hopefully find in your pantry.
banana split protein ball ingredients:
and some of their diverse benefits especially for nursing mamas…
- overripe bananas: this is the key to that super sweet and bright banana split flavor.
- organic rolled oats: the base of the protein balls- rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- plain or vanilla protein powder: this is my all-time favorite brand.
- cashew butter: my fave nut butter protein source also yielding healthy fats and carbohydrates.
- coconut oil: a nutrient and energy-dense fat.
- mini chocolate chips: adds the perfect banana split chocolate addition.
- honey: adds a natural sweetness to brighten the banana flavor.
- fresh or dried cherries: for that quintessential cherry on top!
- vanilla extract: adds a complex vanilla custard flavor note.
- dye-free sprinkles: the most festive ending! I use these often.
the inspiration:
These banana split protein balls are inspired by classic banana split flavors. It begins with mashed banana for that quintessential flavor, chocolate chips instead of chocolate sauce, fresh vanilla for a custard ice cream note, rainbow sprinkles and cherries for a bit of fun.
how to make:
These banana split protein balls are so simple to make! begin by whisking up the wet ingredients in a large bowl- bananas, honey, cashew butter, and coconut oil. When the mixture is nice and mixed, whisk in the protein powder until smooth. next, stir in the oats, chocolate chips, cherries and sprinkles. freeze mixture for 30-45 minutes until very firm and then roll into balls. top each bite with more sprinkles and freeze a final 10-15 minutes. these are the perfect bites to keep stocked in the freezer and enjoy any time of day!
Banana Split Protein Balls
Ingredients
- 1 large ripe banana mashed with a fork
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon mineral salt
- ½ cup cashew butter
- 1 Tablespoon honey
- ¼ cup coconut oil (liquid)
- 2 servings vanilla protein powder
- 2.5 cups rolled oats
- ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips
- ½ cup fresh or dried cherries chopped finely
- 2 Tablespoons dye-free rainbow sprinkles plus more for garnishing
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine mashed banana, vanilla, salt, cashew butter, honey, coconut oil and vanilla protein powder.
- Stir in oats, chocolate chips, cherries and sprinkles, mixing well.
- Freeze mixture for 30-45 minutes until very cold to help mixture to solidify for rolling.
- When mixture is very chilled, roll into 1-inch balls and transfer to a parchment-lined sheet pan. Mixture should yield 24-26 balls.
- Top each bite with sprinkles. Freeze an additional 30 minutes then enjoy!
- Let bites come to room temperature for 3-4 minutes before enjoying. Keep bites stored in an airtight container in the freezer.
Autumn Lunchbox Roundup
Here is an Autumn Lunchbox Roundup including my 3.5 year-old son’s favorites while balancing blood sugar and supporting his protein needs.
Grilled Szechuan Steak with Veggies
This Grilled Szechuan Steak with Veggies is the perfect simple summer meal with flavorful steak and delicious seasonal veggies.
Scallion Gruyere Turkey Burgers
These Scallion Gruyere Turkey Burgers are simple to make, family friendly and full of the flavors of summer.
