Dark Chocolate Blueberry Oat Protein Balls

On those crazy, hectic days when you’re feeling drained and don’t have the energy or time to make a healthy snack, don’t settle for the vending machine.
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Instead, whip up a batch of these delicious dark chocolate blueberry oat protein balls for an easy pick-me-up that will keep you feeling satisfied for hours.

Stress Relief

Bonus, these protein balls packed with ingredients that can help relieve stress!

Oats help the brain produce serotonin, a hormone which creates a soothing feeling to overcome stress.

Studies have shown one to two ounces per day of dark chocolate can significantly improve mood and mood chemicals in the body. Make sure to use dark chocolate with at least 70 percent cocoa or higher to get this stress relieving benefit.
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Blueberries are high in antioxidants and help reduce cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone associated with stress.

Options

The recipe doesn’t require a sweetener, but if your sweet tooth calls for it, you can add one to two teaspoons of stevia or maple syrup to taste.
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If you want a super chocolatey treat, substitute chocolate protein powder for vanilla.

A Portable Treat

Have you ever had to run off somewhere with a hungry belly and absolutely nothing healthy in the fridge or pantry to bring with you to take care of those hunger pangs? If so, these protein balls are the perfect solution.

I suggest making a batch or two and storing them in the freezer. When you’re on the run, grab a couple, and the protein balls will defrost as you run your errands. Or pop them in the microwave for 10 seconds for a warm brownie-like treat.
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You have yourself a quick, portable treat!

Storage

They’ll keep well in a BPA-free air-tight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Whip up a batch of these delicious dark chocolate blueberry oat protein balls for an easy pick-me-up that will keep you feeling satisfied for hours.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Servings: 2-4
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Ingredients:

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 2 scoops vanilla protein powder (I prefer Standard Process Veg-E Pro Complete)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups blueberries
• 3 tbsp water

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, make your dry mix by combining the oats, protein powder and cocoa powder. Mix well.
2. In a food processor, pulse the blueberries until pureed. Add to the dry ingredients and stir.
3. Slowly add 1/2 a tablespoon of water at a time to the mixture until it forms a sticky thick fudge consistency.
4. Using 2 tablespoons of the mix each, roll into small balls and enjoy.

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What do you like to eat when you’re on the run? Share in the comments. I’d love to know!

Be Well & Thrive!