Almond Butter Banana Protein Balls + Eating More Carbs

Proteins, carbs and fats packed into one little bite. The prefect balance of macronutrients.

In the last 2 month, I’ve dialed into my nutrition and have put extra focus on the balance of my meals. It all started with a Whole30 which helped me to understand my personal nutrition needs. I discovered that a lower carb diet is no longer for me and that I had a huge desire to truly create my food freedom. Following the Whole30 to the present moment, I’ve been working on my own food freedom and allowing all foods to fit as long as they don’t result in undesirable physical side effects. Not only have I been consistent with my nutrition but I’ve also been consistent with my workouts which includes 3 days of CrossFit each week at Fairmont CrossFit and 3 days of running each week  as I’m training for an early Spring 1/2 marathon. Sunday is always my REST day.

In addition, I’ve been tracking my macros – carbs, proteins and fats and aiming for a specific balance. I know I know, you may be surprised that I’m counting macros because it’s something I’ve never recommended but this is different than counting calories. Tracking macros is different than calories because you’re focusing on the balance of the nutrients and by doing this, I actually eat MORE! Plus, I like experimenting and trying new things and seeing how my body responds. I would never recommend anything I didn’t personally try first. I’ve continued to eat mostly ‘real food’, sticking to gluten-free foods but I’m not stressing if a food is 100% ‘clean’ or not (my beloved store-purchased Udi’s bagels with pb, dry cereal and pizza have made a comeback in my life – hallelujah). I’m eating more carbs and calories than I have in YEARS and guess what, I feel better than ever! I have more energy, I’m sleeping better, I’m stronger, I have a much healthier relationship with food and my clothes are fitting better. I have a fairly big appetite so more food for the win in my book! This goes to show that consistency is key and in some situations, you actually need to eat MORE to see the results you desire. I can now officially say that and back it up with my own personal experience.

I went a little off topic there, but I felt a need to share a bit of my journey with you as I feel some of you may be able to relate! I’m also working on opening up more on the blog and sharing with you my current happenings, struggles and successes. I’m thinking about sharing an entire blog post on my experience with macros, increasing carbs, my current eats so if that’s something you would be interested in reading, comment below and let me know.

How about we get back to these delicious Almond Butter Banana Protein Balls? They are the perfect bite size snack that contain a healthy source of proteins, fats and carbs and with 5 grams of fiber and only 5 grams of sugar per serving they make for a great pre-workout snack or a sensible after dinner treat.

Almond Butter Banana Protein Balls for all to enjoy!

I know there are a billion and one protein ball recipes out there but in my opinion, there is always room for another. You can make this recipe in a food processor or go old school style with a mixing bowl and wooden spoon…arm workout!

Almond Butter Banana Protein Balls are great for pre-workout fuel but also make for a tasty lunch box addition or after school snack for kids! A great way to sneak in a little protein and fiber too.

I also like to make this recipe with peanut butter in place of the almond butter. Um…yum! So if you’re a peanut butter lover like me, I highly recommend you give that a try also. Note-because peanuts are legume, this option would not be considered a true paleo recipe.

This recipe is gluten-free, grain-free, egg-free, dairy-free, paleo-friendly, and vegan optional.

Made with Rootz Protein Powder.

Rootz Nutrition Paleo Protein Superfood is made of only clean ingredients. The quality protein sources are a combination of egg whites, hemp protein and sacha inchi protein. Also, in this protein powder is a blend of foods that provide a nutritious punch including chia seeds, bee pollen, maca root, powdered greens, acai, royal jelly and more. This protein powder is a great option for anyone who is sensitive to whey or dairy. It’s great for post-workout recovery or to add to your morning smoothie.

However, if you follow an egg-free or vegan diet or you don’t have this protein powder on hand yet, feel free to substitute a protein powder of your choice. I do recommend something that is naturally flavored for this recipe.

Purchase Rootz Protein Powder – Get 10% of your order with coupon code: realfoodrds

Stock your freezer with Almond Butter Banana Protein Balls.

Not only will they last longer but it’s also my favorite way to enjoy them – right out of the freezer with just a little thaw time. The perfect treat! In the freezer they will last up to 3 months and in the fridge, about 2 weeks.

Okay it’s time to make some Almond Butter Banana Protein Balls!

Looking for more recipes like this? Try our Almond Butter Chocolate Chip Bites, Nutty Butter Bites, Dark Chocolate Cherry Bites, 4-Ingredient PB & J Bites or Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Energy Bites.

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Let's Get Cookin'

Almond Butter Banana Protein Balls

Almond Butter Banana Protein Balls are the perfect bite sized snack that contain a healthy source of proteins, fats and carbs and with 5 grams of fiber and only 5 grams of sugar per serving they make for a great pre-workout snack or a sensible after dinner treat.

• Author: The Real Food Dietitians
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 15 mins
• Yield: 12 servings
• Category: Snack | Sweets & Treats

Print Recipe

★★★★★ 5 from 3 reviews

Ingredients

• 1 cup almond meal/flour
• 1/2 cup flax meal
• 1/2 cup (3 scoops) Rootz Protein Powder (or protein powder of choice)
• 1 Tbsp. chia seeds
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1/2 cup almond butter (may sub peanut butter, sunflower seed butter or cashew butter)
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds (or chopped peanuts if using peanut butter)
• 1/4 cup mini-chocolate chips
• Optional add-in: 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut flakes

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl combine all of the ingredients.
2. Mix until well combined.
3. With hands, form into small round balls. About 24.
4. Chill in the fridge or in the freezer. They hold together better and taste best chilled.
5. Store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. (Side note: I like them best right from the freezer with just a little thaw time)

Notes

All photos and content are copyright protected. Please do not use our photos without prior written permission. If you wish to republish this recipe, please rewrite the recipe in your own unique words and link back to the source recipe here on The Real Food Dietitians.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 Protein Balls
• Calories: 229
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 40 mh
• Fat: 15 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 11 g

What are your favorite protein ball additions?

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About Stacie Hassing

Stacie is a Licensed and Registered Dietitian from rural southern Minnesota where she and her husband reside on 5 acres with their two pups, Walter & Lucy. She’s a creator of simple and wholesome recipes, a lover of nature, a crossfitter, a seasonal runner, and she’s on a mission to inspire as many as she can live a healthier and happier life from the inside out.