High Protein Buckeyes
Buckeyes are a great festive holiday treat that are an easy addition to any cookie tray. Traditionally they are high in healthy fats from the peanut butter, but also high in sugar. This recipe adds protein to promote that comfortable feeling of fullness we get from eating while also decreasing the sugar content, which can help you to feel satisfied by your sweets without overdoing it!
High Protein Buckeyes
Makes 20 servings
Ingredients:
1 cup peanut butter (I prefer Adam’s all natural)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
2 Tbsp honey
1.5-2 Tbsp water
¾ cup dark chocolate chips
1/2-1 Tbsp coconut oil
Optional toppings: sprinkles, shredded unsweetened coconut, crushed peanuts, crushed pretzels
Directions:
Combine peanut butter, vanilla, protein powder, honey, and water in a medium-sized bowl. Mix until the texture is like cookie dough. Start with 1.5 Tbsp water, add until you get to a mixture that sticks together and isn’t too dry.
Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll dough into approximately golf ball size balls and place them on the parchment paper. Freeze for 30 minutes or until firm and can hold shape when handled.
Meanwhile, melt the chocolate. Place the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a small bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds at a time, stirring occasionally until glossy and fully melted. If you are adding toppings, prepare these in their own small bowls.
Pick up frozen balls one at a time either on the end of a fork or with a toothpick. Dip the ball into the chocolate, leaving a small ring at the top (or fully coat if you prefer more of a truffle look than a buckeye look). Gently twirl the buckeye above the bowl after dipping to shake off any extra chocolate drips.
If coating in toppings, next dip into your topping bowl to fully coat the chocolate. Using a second toothpick, slide the ball off and back onto your parchment paper. You may choose to freeze again to speed the drying process. Thaw and serve!
Looking for some modifications?
If peanuts aren’t for you, feel free to substitute for almond or a seed butter
Add some variety and mix up the chocolate you dip in. You can substitute the dark chocolate chips for milk chocolate, white chocolate, or butterscotch chips.
