Dr. Wilde’s “Cookie Dough with Cacao Nibs” Protein Ball Recipe

• Jul 07, 2023

Dr. Wilde’s Delicious Protein Ball Recipe

In today’s fast-paced world, we all need a quick and nutritious breakfast or snack to start us off right, and keep us going strong. Protein balls are the perfect solution, providing a portable burst of energy, essential nutrients, and incredible flavors. In this blog post, we’ll share a simple and customizable protein ball recipe that will satisfy your cravings and nourish your body. You can even have these for breakfast!

Why Choose Dr. Wilde’s Cookie Dough Protein Ball for your Go-To Snack?
Protein balls are not only delicious but also offer several benefits:

Sustained Energy: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and mineral rich ingredients, these little bites provide a steady release of energy, keeping you fueled and focused throughout the day.

Muscle Recovery: Protein is essential for repairing and rebuilding muscles after physical activity. Protein balls can aid in muscle recovery, making them an excellent post-workout snack.

Nutrient-Dense: By using wholesome ingredients, such as nuts, seeds, and superfoods, protein balls are a nutrient-dense snack that can provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. If you use the detox powder, you could be getting your daily recommendations of all your vitamins and minerals.

Portability and Convenience: Protein balls are portable and easy to grab on the go, making them a convenient breakfast or snack option for busy lifestyles, whether you’re heading to work, the gym, or running errands.

Superfood Ingredients

Cashews: Be sure to get cashew butter in glass!

1. Heart Health: Cashews contain heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, including oleic acid, which has been associated with reducing bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and promoting good cholesterol (HDL) levels. This can help lower the risk of heart disease and maintain cardiovascular health.
2. Nutrient-Rich: Cashews are packed with essential nutrients. They are a good source of protein, dietary fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin E, vitamin K, and B vitamins), and minerals (such as magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and copper).
3. Bone Health: Cashews are a source of minerals crucial for maintaining healthy bones. They contain significant amounts of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which play vital roles in bone development, strength, and density.
4. Blood Health: Cashews are rich in copper, a mineral involved in the production of red blood cells. Adequate copper intake supports a healthy immune system, proper iron absorption, and the formation of collagen for healthy skin and connective tissues.
5. Antioxidant Protection: Cashews contain antioxidants, including vitamin E, which help protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants support overall health and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and age-related macular degeneration.
6. Healthy Nervous System: The presence of magnesium in cashews supports a healthy nervous system. Magnesium plays a crucial role in nerve function, muscle relaxation, and the maintenance of healthy blood pressure levels.

Chia seeds

1. Nutrient Powerhouse: Despite their small size, chia seeds are packed with essential nutrients. They are an excellent source of dietary fiber, healthy fats (omega-3 fatty acids), protein, antioxidants, vitamins (such as vitamin B, vitamin E), and minerals (including calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus).
2. Digestive Health: Chia seeds are rich in soluble fiber, which absorbs water and forms a gel-like substance in the digestive tract. This can help promote regular bowel movements, prevent constipation, and support a healthy digestive system.
3. Heart Health: The high content of omega-3 fatty acids in chia seeds, specifically alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids help lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides, and may help maintain healthy blood pressure and reduce inflammation.
4. Blood Sugar Control: Chia seeds have a low glycemic index, which means they are digested and absorbed slowly, leading to a gradual release of glucose into the bloodstream. This can help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent spikes, making chia seeds a suitable addition to a diabetic-friendly diet.
5. Weight Management: Chia seeds can contribute to weight management due to their high fiber and protein content. The combination of these nutrients helps promote feelings of fullness and satiety, reducing overall calorie intake and aiding in weight control.
6. Bone Health: Chia seeds are a good source of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, all of which are essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones. Adequate calcium intake is crucial for bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
7. Antioxidant Protection: Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and protect the body against free radicals. Antioxidants contribute to overall health and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Coconut

1. Nutrient-Rich: Coconuts are packed with essential nutrients. They contain fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin C, E, B vitamins), minerals (including potassium, manganese, and copper), and beneficial plant compounds like phenolic compounds and flavonoids.
2. Heart Health: While coconut does contain saturated fats, the type of saturated fat found in coconuts, known as medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), is metabolized differently in the body compared to long-chain fatty acids. MCTs may help raise levels of good cholesterol (HDL) and have been associated with improved heart health markers.
3. Weight Management: Despite being calorie-dense, coconut products like coconut oil and coconut meat can potentially support weight management. The MCTs found in coconut oil may increase feelings of fullness and boost calorie burning, which can aid in weight control when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
4. Digestive Health: Coconut contains dietary fiber, which can support healthy digestion, promote regular bowel movements, and provide relief from digestive disorders like constipation.
5. Antioxidant Protection: Coconut contains phenolic compounds and antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and neutralize free radicals in the body, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases and promoting overall well-being.

Cacao nibs

1. Antioxidant Powerhouse: Cacao nibs are rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids. These antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases by neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body.
2. Mood Booster: Cacao nibs contain compounds that can stimulate the production of endorphins, serotonin, and phenylethylamine (PEA) in the brain. These chemicals contribute to feelings of happiness, pleasure, and overall well-being, potentially enhancing mood.
3. Cardiovascular Health: The flavonoids in cacao nibs have been associated with various cardiovascular benefits. They may help improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and promote healthy cholesterol levels, thus supporting heart health.
4. Nutrient-Dense Superfood: Cacao nibs are a nutrient powerhouse. They are a good source of fiber, healthy fats, iron, magnesium, calcium, and other essential minerals. Incorporating cacao nibs into your diet can provide a range of vital nutrients necessary for overall health and well-being.
5. Cognitive Function: Cacao nibs contain certain compounds, such as flavanols, that have been linked to improved cognitive function. Regular consumption of cacao nibs may support memory, focus, and brain health.
6. Energy and Endurance: Cacao nibs contain natural stimulants, including theobromine and caffeine (in smaller amounts compared to coffee), which can provide a gentle energy boost. These compounds may also enhance endurance and physical performance.
7. Weight Management: Cacao nibs can be a valuable addition to a weight management plan. They are low in sugar and high in fiber, which can promote feelings of fullness and reduce excessive snacking or overeating.
8. Healthy Skin: The antioxidants in cacao nibs can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, the high magnesium content in cacao nibs may contribute to healthy skin cell function and maintenance.

Dr. Wilde’s “Cookie Dough with Cacao Nibs” Protein Ball Recipe

Ingredients:

1 jar of cashew butter (make sure it is in glass not plastic)

2 1/2  scoops vanilla protein powder or detox powder
2 tablespoons organic chia seeds
1/4 cup organic chopped coconut
1/4 cup organic cacao nibs

Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, add cashew butter and protein powder. Mix well to create a sticky dough-like consistency.

Add the chia seeds, cacao nibs and shredded coconut and mix well. Incorporate any additional mix-ins of your choice.

Using clean hands or a spoon, scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls.

Place the protein balls on a parchment-lined tray or plate, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.
Once chilled, your homemade protein balls are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Get Creative with Flavors:
Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding ingredients like cocoa powder, vanilla extract, spices (such as cinnamon or nutmeg), or superfood boosters like chia seeds, flaxseeds, mushroom powders or matcha powder.

You can also use different nut butters and add in functional supplements. Here’s a link to my favorite nutraceutical additions to smoothies and other recipes.

Conclusion:
With their combination of protein, healthy fats, and satisfying flavors, these protein balls are the perfect snack to keep you nourished and energized. Whip up a batch of these delightful treats, and have them on hand for a quick and nutritious snack whenever hunger strikes. Customize the recipe to suit your preferences and enjoy the benefits of this convenient and delicious snack.

You can eat these on your Detox!

If you want more health supportive recipes that are low glycemic, healthy, non-inflammatory and can be eaten while you detox, get Dr. Wilde’s Wilde Vitality Detoxification Recipe Book.