Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Protein Bites
These no-bake Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Protein Bites are a quick, healthy snack packed with rich chocolate flavor, nutty crunch, and a touch of sea salt. Perfect for lunchboxes, potlucks, or a nutritious treat on busy days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 bites 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned, not instant)
- 1/2 cup nut butter (almond, peanut, or cashew; creamy)
- 1/3 cup protein powder (chocolate or vanilla; whey or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (or honey)
- 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips (60-70% cacao, mini or regular)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds; optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseed meal (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Flaky sea salt, for topping
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set out all ingredients and measuring tools.
- In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, protein powder, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, and chia seeds or flaxseed meal. Stir until evenly distributed.
- Add nut butter, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until the dough starts clumping together. If too dry, add more nut butter or a splash of milk.
- Fold in dark chocolate chips, stirring gently to avoid melting them completely.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out portions and roll into 1-inch balls. Place on the prepared tray.
- Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each bite and press gently so it sticks.
- Chill the tray in the refrigerator for 20 minutes or until bites are firm. For faster setting, freeze for 10 minutes.
- Once set, enjoy immediately or transfer to an airtight container for storage.
Notes
Use room temperature nut butter for easier mixing. For nut-free, use sunflower seed butter and seeds instead of nuts. Dough should be sticky but not gooey; adjust oats or nut butter as needed. Double the batch and freeze for grab-and-go snacks. These bites are customizable—add dried fruit, swap sweeteners, or use vegan chocolate chips.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite (about 25g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 60
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 7
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 4
Keywords: protein bites, healthy snack, dark chocolate, sea salt, no bake, gluten free, vegan option, easy snack, energy bites, lunchbox snack