Christmas Pudding Protein Balls

Looking for a festive treat that's both delicious and healthy? 🎄 My Christmas Pudding Protein Balls are packed with wholesome ingredients like dates, nuts, and spices. Perfect for snacking or sharing, these little bites of joy are easy to make and will keep you fueled through the holiday hustle!
Christmas Pudding Protein Balls pinit

Hey there, friends! With the holiday season in full swing, it’s time to whip up some festive treats that’ll keep you energized and ready for all the fun. Today, I’m sharing my delicious Christmas Pudding Protein Balls. They’re packed with yummy flavors, super easy to make, and a great way to satisfy those sweet cravings without the guilt. Trust me, these little bites of joy are a must-try!

Try my Holiday Chocolate Truffles recipe.

Why you’ll love this recipe

Quick and Easy: Whipping up these protein balls takes just 20 minutes, plus a little chill time. Perfect for busy holiday schedules!

Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome goodies like dates, nuts, and protein powder, these treats are a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Festive Flavors: With warm spices and a hint of orange, each bite brings the cozy flavors of Christmas right to your taste buds.

Customizable: Feel free to switch up the nuts or add in your favorite dried fruits. This recipe is super flexible!

Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s for a holiday party or a sweet gift, these protein balls are sure to impress your friends and family.

Satisfying Snack: They’re great for a post-workout boost or an afternoon pick-me-up. You’ll feel good about grabbing one (or two!).

Fun to Make: Get the whole family involved! Rolling the balls and decorating them is a fun activity, especially with the little ones.

Keep Fresh: Store them in an airtight container, and you’ve got a delicious treat ready to enjoy for days!

So, why wait? Let’s dive into this tasty holiday adventure!

Try my Eggnog Protein Smoothie recipe.

What you’ll need to make

Medjool Dates: These sweet gems are the star of the show! They add natural sweetness and a chewy texture, making them the perfect base for our protein balls.

Raisins: A classic addition, raisins bring a burst of fruity flavor. They’re not only tasty but also packed with vitamins and minerals, giving our treats an extra boost.

Vanilla Protein Powder: This ingredient helps bump up the protein content, keeping you full and satisfied. Plus, it adds a lovely vanilla flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.

Pecans: Crunchy and nutty, pecans add a delicious texture to each bite. They’re rich in healthy fats and are a great source of vitamins and minerals.

Orange Juice and Zest: A splash of fresh-squeezed orange juice and a hint of zest bring a bright, citrusy flavor that really makes these protein balls pop! It’s like a little holiday cheer in every bite.

Spices: Ground cinnamon and allspice add warmth and depth to our recipe, giving it that cozy holiday feel. They not only taste great but also have health benefits!

Cocoa Powder: Just a tablespoon of cocoa powder adds a rich, chocolatey flavor to our protein balls, making them feel indulgent without all the sugar.

Dried Cranberries and Pumpkin Seeds (for decoration): These fun toppings not only make our treats look festive but also add a touch of sweetness and crunch. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients!

With these key ingredients, you’re all set to create some deliciously healthy Christmas Pudding Protein Balls that everyone will love!

Try my Orange Spiced Hot Chocolate – Christmas Treat recipe.

Ingredients: Serves – 12
– 1 cup (175g) pitted medjool dates
– 1/2 cup (80g) raisins
– 4 tbsp vanilla protein powder
– 1/2 cup (60g) pecans
– 1 tbsp orange juice, fresh-squeezed + 1 tsp orange zest
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground allspice
– 1 tbsp cocoa powder
Decoration:
– 1/2 tbsp dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup (40g) white chocolate chips (traditional, dairy-free or vegan)
– 1 tbsp pumpkin seeds

What you’ll need to do

Time required: 20 mins Chill time: 4 hours

1| Get Your Blend On: Grab your trusty food processor and toss in the dates, raisins, protein powder, pecans, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon, allspice, and cocoa powder. Blitz it all together until you’ve got a smooth and delicious dough.

2| Roll It Up: Now, take that yummy mixture and roll it into 12 little balls. Place them on a tray and pop them in the fridge to chill for about 30 minutes. This helps them firm up nicely!

3| Berry Fun: While they’re chilling, let’s make some cute cranberry decorations! Snip the dried cranberries into thirds and roll them between your fingers to create little berry balls.

4| Chocolate Magic: Melt your white chocolate and drizzle a little over each protein ball. Gently push the chocolate outward so it drips down the sides—let’s make it look fancy!

5| Decorate Away: Now, take your cranberry balls and pumpkin seeds, and place 2 of each on top of the chocolate-covered balls. They’ll look adorable!

6| Chill Again: Put the tray back in the fridge for about 20 minutes so the chocolate can harden up.

7| Store and Enjoy: Once they’re ready, store your delicious protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days—if they last that long!

And there you have it! Easy-peasy and fun to make. Enjoy your festive treats!

Christmas Pudding Protein Balls

Glycemic Index: Moderate (56) Glycemic Load: Moderate (11)

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Recipe swaps & Creative tweaks

Here are some fun recipe swaps and tweaks to customize your Christmas Pudding Protein Balls:

Try my The Best Almond Cookies recipe.

Nuts:

  • Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds to change up the flavor and texture.
  • Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.

Dried Fruits:

  • Replace raisins with dried figs or apricots for a different fruity taste.
  • Try adding some chopped dried cherries for a tart kick!

Protein Powder:

  • Use chocolate-flavored protein powder instead of vanilla for a richer taste.
  • For a plant-based option, go for pea or hemp protein powder.

Sweeteners:

  • If you want it sweeter, add a drizzle of maple syrup or honey (if not vegan).
  • For a sugar-free option, use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.

Cocoa Powder:

  • Skip the cocoa powder for a non-chocolate version and add a tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter for extra creaminess.

Try my Blueberry Oat Breakfast Bars recipe.

Recipe Tweaks

Add More Spice:

  • Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor twist.

Include a Crunch:

  • Add some crispy rice cereal or crushed granola to the mixture for extra crunch.

Incorporate a Flavor Boost:

  • Mix in a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract for added flavor depth.

Make It Creamy:

  • Blend in a tablespoon of nut butter to create a creamier texture and a boost of healthy fats.

Roll in Extras:

  • After chilling, roll the protein balls in shredded coconut, crushed nuts, or extra cocoa powder for a fun coating.

Change the Toppings:

  • Instead of cranberries and pumpkin seeds, use dark chocolate chips and chopped hazelnuts for a decadent twist.

Seasonal Flavors:

  • Try adding pumpkin spice or chai spice for a seasonal flair during the fall and winter months.

With these swaps and tweaks, you can easily customize your Christmas Pudding Protein Balls to fit your taste and dietary preferences! Enjoy experimenting!

Try my Kefir Chia Seed Pudding recipe.

Some useful tips for success

Here are some handy tips to ensure your Christmas Pudding Protein Balls turn out perfectly:

1| Choose Quality Dates: Look for soft, moist Medjool dates for the best flavor and texture. If your dates are a bit dry, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before using.

2| Chill Time: Don’t skip the chilling step! Refrigerating the rolled balls helps them firm up, making them easier to handle and eat.

3| Food Processor: If your food processor struggles, chop the nuts and dates roughly before blending. This helps everything mix more evenly without overworking the processor.

Try my Protein Peanut Butter Cups recipe.

4| Consistency Check: If the mixture is too crumbly, add a little more orange juice or a splash of water until you reach the right dough-like consistency. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more protein powder or oats.

5| Get Handsy: Wet your hands slightly when rolling the balls to prevent sticking and make the process easier.

6| Store Properly: Keep the protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their freshness. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just let them thaw before enjoying!

Try my Peaches and Cream Crumble recipe.

7| Taste as You Go: Don’t hesitate to taste the mixture before rolling it into balls! Adjust the sweetness or spice levels to your liking.

8| Make It a Family Activity: Get the kids involved! They can help roll the balls or decorate them, making it a fun and festive activity.

9| Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Try adding different spices or flavor extracts to match your taste preferences.

10| Presentation Matters: When serving, place your protein balls on a festive platter or in cute containers. A little garnish, like a sprig of mint or a dusting of cocoa powder, can make them look extra special!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be all set to make some delicious and festive Christmas Pudding Protein Balls! Enjoy!

Try my Easy Lemon Blueberry Bread recipe.

Christmas Pudding Protein Balls

Some serving suggestions

Here are some fun and creative serving ideas for your Christmas Pudding Protein Balls:

1| Festive Platter: Arrange the protein balls on a beautiful serving platter. Add some fresh cranberries, orange slices, or sprigs of mint for a pop of color and a festive touch.

2| Snack Station: Set up a holiday snack station at your next gathering with your protein balls, mixed nuts, dried fruits, and some dark chocolate for a delightful assortment of treats.

3| Gift Giving: Package the protein balls in small, decorative jars or boxes with a ribbon. They make great homemade gifts for friends and family during the holidays!

Try my Matcha Chia Pudding with Mango Puree recipe.

4| Dessert Table: Include the protein balls on your dessert table alongside other holiday sweets. They provide a healthy option that balances out the indulgent treats.

5| In Smoothies: Toss a protein ball into your smoothie for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition. It’ll add a delightful sweetness and thickness to your drink!

6| Post-Workout Snack: Serve the protein balls with a side of yogurt or cottage cheese for a balanced post-workout snack that combines protein, carbs, and healthy fats.

Try my Muffin-Tin Blueberry Popovers recipe.

7| Baking Activity: Use the protein balls as part of a fun baking activity with kids. Have them help create a “protein ball decorating station” with different toppings like shredded coconut, nuts, or sprinkles.

8| On-the-Go Treats: Pack a few protein balls in a snack bag for a quick and easy on-the-go treat for busy days, road trips, or after-school snacks.

9| Holiday Brunch: Serve the protein balls alongside other brunch favorites like smoothies, oatmeal, or fruit salad for a nutritious and festive breakfast spread.

10| Coffee or Tea Pairing: Enjoy the protein balls with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. The combination makes for a cozy snack, especially during the chilly holiday season.

With these serving ideas, you can enjoy your Christmas Pudding Protein Balls in a variety of fun and delicious ways!

Some storage suggestions

Here are some effective storage options for your Christmas Pudding Protein Balls to keep them fresh and tasty:

1| Airtight Containers: Store your protein balls in a glass or plastic airtight container. This will help maintain their freshness and prevent them from drying out or absorbing other odors from the fridge.

2| Refrigerator: Keep the protein balls in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This is the best way to keep them firm and delicious, ready for snacking whenever you need!

3| Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the protein balls! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

4| Parchment Paper Layering: If you stack the protein balls in a container, place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.

Try my Decadent Chocolate Kahlua Tart recipe.

5| Snack Bags: For on-the-go convenience, pack individual protein balls in resealable snack bags. This makes it easy to grab a healthy snack when you’re in a rush.

6| Labeling: If you’re freezing the protein balls, consider labeling the container or bag with the date and contents. This helps you keep track of how long they’ve been stored.

7| Mason Jars: Use mason jars for a cute storage option. They’re perfect for gifting or keeping on display in your kitchen, and the airtight seal helps keep them fresh.

8| Silicone Storage Bags: These reusable silicone bags are great for storing protein balls. They’re eco-friendly, easy to clean, and keep the balls fresh while reducing plastic waste.

By choosing the right storage option, you can enjoy your Christmas Pudding Protein Balls whenever the craving strikes!

Try my other dessert recipes.

And there you have it! Your very own batch of Christmas Pudding Protein Balls, ready to impress friends and family alike. They’re perfect for snacking during those holiday movie marathons or as a sweet surprise at gatherings. Just remember to store them in an airtight container—if they last that long! So go ahead, give this recipe a shot, and enjoy every delicious bite. Happy holidays, everyone!

Recipe card

Christmas Pudding Protein Balls

Get ready to enjoy the holiday season with my Christmas Pudding Protein Balls! 🎉 They’re quick to whip up, loaded with yummy flavors, and great for keeping your energy up. With a delightful mix of protein, nuts, and festive spices, these treats are sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

Prep Time 20 mins Rest Time 4 hrs Total Time 4 hrs 20 mins Difficulty: Intermediate Servings: 12 Estimated Cost: 13 Calories: 125 Best Season: Winter

Ingredients

Decoration

Instructions

  1. Step 1:

    Place the dates, raisins, protein powder, pecans, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon, allspice and cocoa powder in a food processor and blitz until smooth.

  2. Step 2:

    Roll the dough into 12 balls, place on a tray and chill for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

  3. Step 3:

    Cut the dried cranberries into thirds, then roll in your fingers to form balls for berry decorations.

  4. Step 4:

    Melt the white chocolate and pour a little over each of the balls, pushing the chocolate outwards so that it drips down the side of the ball.

  5. Step 5:

    Place 2 cranberry balls and 2 pumpkin seeds on top of the chocolate to decorate. Place the balls on a tray and refrigerate for 20 minutes allowing the chocolate to harden.

  6. Step 6:

    Store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
How long do Christmas Pudding Protein Balls last?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you freeze them, they can last for about 3 months.

Can I make these protein balls nut-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the pecans with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, or leave them out altogether.

What can I use instead of protein powder?

If you don’t have protein powder on hand, you can use rolled oats for added texture or a nut butter for creaminess. Just keep in mind that this may change the flavor and texture slightly.

Can I add other flavor or spices?

Yes! Feel free to get creative. You can add spices like nutmeg or ginger, or even mix in a scoop of your favorite nut butter or chocolate chips.

What if my mixture is too sticky?

If the mixture is too sticky to roll, try adding a bit more protein powder or oats until it reaches a manageable consistency. Chilling the mixture for a bit can also help.

Can I use other dried fruits?

Definitely! You can replace raisins with dried figs, apricots, or cranberries. Just keep the total amount of dried fruit about the same.

Is there a vegan option for these protein balls?

Yes! Just make sure to use plant-based protein powder and substitute honey with maple syrup for a completely vegan-friendly treat.

Can I use a different type of sweetener?

Yes! You can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or a sugar substitute like stevia if you prefer a lower-sugar option.

How do I serve these protein balls?

You can enjoy them as a snack on their own, include them in a holiday dessert spread, or serve them with yogurt for a balanced meal.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! These protein balls are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare and store them for quick and healthy snacks during the busy holiday season.

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