Ohio State Protein Power Balls

Power Balls!  Little bundles of energy and deliciousness.  Easy to take with wherever you go and the perfect go-to snack when you feel like a healthy nosh with a touch of sweetness.

This version of power ball came into my world in Columbus, Ohio.  While visiting my daughter, Lexi, at The Ohio State University, we tried a protein power ball at a local coffee shop.  It was really good!   I noticed it contained a variety of natural ingredients including hemp protein, so I decided to try and make my own version at home.  Enter the Ohio State Protein Power Ball!  OH–IO yum!

Let’s talk a little about protein powder:  I am not a huge fan of protein powder.  Many types contain artificial sweeteners and artificial ingredients, such as Sucralose and soy protein isolate, and that alone is reason enough to avoid them.  It’s better to obtain your protein needs from real foods than from protein powders loaded with junky ingredients.  But if you do like to add protein powder to your smoothies, oatmeal or your diet, always use one that contains all natural ingredients and preferably a plant-based protein source.

I used the 365 Brand Hemp Protein Unflavored Powder for this recipe.  It does not contain anything except hemp seed powder, offering you a healthy dose of fiber and Omega 3s.  I think it worked nicely in these balls, so give them a try and see if you agree that they are OH delicious!

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Ohio State Protein Power Balls

Delicious power balls packed with protein to provide you with extra energy.

Course Snack

Prep Time 10 minutes

Refrigeration 1 hour

Servings 8 balls

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup raw, thick rolled oats not instant
• 1/2 cup all-natural almond or peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon raw honey
• 1 tablespoon organic cacao powder
• 1/4 cup organic unsweetened hemp protein powder
• 2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips

Directions

1. Place oats in a blender.  Chop oats for about 5-10 seconds until they are more like a chunky flour.

2. Pour oats into a large mixing bowl.

3. Place chocolate chips in blender.  Chop them for about 10 seconds until they are like a powder.  Pour them into the bowl.

4. Add all other ingredients.  Mix with a spoon or your hands until everything is well combined.

5. Cover a cookie sheet with tinfoil or parchment paper.  

6. Roll mixture into balls about the size of golf balls.  Place them on cookie sheet.

7. Place in refrigerator for 1 hour.  Then enjoy!  

8. Store in covered container in refrigerator.