Raw Nutty Chocolate Protein Bites Recipe

If you’re hunting for a snack that’s easy, plant-based, protein-packed, and portable, these raw, nutty chocolate protein bites hit all the marks. Combining raw almonds and cashews with dates, a scoop of plant-based protein powder, melted coconut oil, hazelnut spread, cacao nibs, chia seeds, and a pinch of cinnamon, these bites manage to deliver satisfying chewiness, natural sweetness, and wholesome fats — without dairy, gluten, or refined sugar.

With just 10 minutes of active prep and about 40 minutes total (including chilling), these bites are perfect for busy days, post-workout fuel, or midday hunger that calls for something more nourishing than a candy bar. Because they rely on whole foods — nuts, seeds, dates — rather than processed ingredients, they offer more nutrients, fiber, and slower-burning energy than many traditional snacks.

They’re also a great example of how versatile healthy baking can be: no baking required, minimal cleanup, and easily customizable. Whether you need a pre-lunch pick-me-up, a snack to toss into a bag for work or travel, or a quick dessert alternative that fits vegan and gluten-free diets — these protein bites deliver flavor, energy, and convenience all at once.

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Chocolate Protein Bites

Recipe Details

Yield: 18 bites
Active Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Chocolate Protein Bite Ingredients

• 1/2 cup raw almonds
• 1/2 cup raw cashews
• 1 cup dates, pitted
• 1 scoop vanilla plant protein powder (about 4 1/2 tablespoons)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
• 3 tablespoons hazelnut spread
• 1 tablespoon cacao nibs
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of sea salt (optional)
• Cacao powder for dusting (optional)

How to Make Chocolate Protein Bites

1. Add almonds and cashews to the base of a food processor and pulse until evenly ground.
2. Put all remaining ingredients in the processor and pulse until thoroughly combined (the mixture will begin to bind together).
3. Remove 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball between your hands. Place the ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet; repeat with remaining dough until all balls are formed.
4. Refrigerate until firm, about 30 minutes.
5. Using a small sifter, lightly dust with cacao powder, if desired.
6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

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Chocolate Protein Bite Nutrition Facts

*Estimated per bite (recipe yields 18 bites). Based strictly on Thrive Market’s ingredient amounts.

Serving Size	1 bite
Calories	≈ 160 kcal
Protein	≈ 5 g
Carbs	≈ 15 g
Sugar	≈ 8 g
Fiber	≈ 3 g
Fat	≈ 10 g

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Chocolate Protein Bite Variations & Tips

• Swap or mix nuts: Use raw walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts in place of almonds/cashews to change flavor and nutrient profile.
• Nut-free option: For nut-allergies, substitute nuts with sunflower or pumpkin seeds — but note texture will be slightly different.
• Boost protein content: Use a more protein-dense powder (e.g. pea + hemp blend) or add a spoonful of hemp or flax seeds for extra plant protein and omega-3s.
• Adjust sweetness level: Reduce the dates slightly, or replace the hazelnut spread with unsweetened nut/seed butter if you prefer a less-sweet, more “clean” bite.
• Add flavor and texture: Fold in unsweetened shredded coconut, mini dark-chocolate chips, or chopped dried fruit for variety and contrast.
• Make bars instead of bites: Press the mixture into a small loaf pan lined with parchment, chill, then slice — ideal if you prefer sliceable bars over round bites.
• Freeze for longer storage: Once set, store extra bites in the freezer — they thaw quickly when you want a ready-to-eat protein snack.

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Best Chocolate Protein Bite Pairings

• Cold plant milk or almond/oat milk latte: The nuttiness and chocolate in the bites pair beautifully with creamy nut-milk drinks or iced lattes.
• Fresh fruit & nut plate: Apples, banana slices or berries plus a few raw nuts — adds freshness and balances chewy density for a balanced snack or light breakfast.
• Dairy-free yogurt parfait: Crumble a couple bites over coconut-milk yogurt and top with berries for a quick, protein-rich breakfast or dessert.
• Post-workout smoothie: Toss in a smoothie with spinach, plant milk, and a frozen banana for extra protein and a chocolaty kick after exercise.
• Trail mix boost: Combine with seeds (pumpkin, sunflower), dried fruit, and perhaps a sprinkle of sea salt — great for hiking, road-trips, or mid-day energy slumps.
• Black coffee or herbal tea: A bitter or earthy drink helps balance the sweet-nutty flavor of the bites and makes for a satisfying snack break.

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When to Make Chocolate Protein Bites

• Make-ahead snack stash: Prepare a batch on weekend, store in fridge or freezer — grab a couple when you need a quick snack or breakfast on the go.
• Post-workout refuel: After gym or run, a couple bites give quick carbs, protein, and healthy fats — ideal for recovery or energy refill.
• Lunchbox or workbag staple: Toss a few bites into your bag for a mid-afternoon energy boost instead of vending-machine snacks or sugary bars.
• Travel or hiking fuel: Portable, shelf-stable for a few hours — perfect for hikes, day trips, or commutes when you want clean, compact energy.
• Kid-friendly snack: Easy to portion into small bites, and often a hit with kids (sweet, chewy, chocolate-y) — good for school snacks or after-school hunger.
• Healthy dessert alternative: After dinner, enjoy a bite or two with a cup of tea or plant-milk — a smarter, nutrient-dense substitute for cookies or traditional dessert.

Recipe credit: Courtney Knapp
Photo credit: Paul Delmont