Cottage Cheese Protein Balls (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Protein Base

01 - 1 cup full fat cottage cheese (2-4% recommended)
02 - ¼ cup vanilla protein powder

→ Dry Ingredients

03 - 1 ½ cups almond flour (or heat-treated all-purpose flour for smoother texture)
04 - 1 ½ cups chocolate chips, divided (1 cup + ½ cup)

→ Flavorings

05 - 2 Tbsp maple syrup
06 - 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
07 - 1 tsp coconut oil

# Instructions:

01 - In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until completely smooth with no lumps remaining.
02 - Reserve 1 cup of chocolate chips for coating. In a medium bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, almond flour, protein powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and remaining ½ cup chocolate chips. Stir until well incorporated.
03 - Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the dough to firm up and become more workable.
04 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a cookie scoop to portion the mixture evenly, then roll into balls with clean hands.
05 - Place the formed protein balls onto the prepared baking sheet and freeze for at least 20 minutes until firm.
06 - Place the reserved 1 cup of chocolate chips and coconut oil in a small, microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at 15-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until completely melted and smooth.
07 - Dip each frozen protein ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring complete coverage, then place back onto parchment paper.
08 - Refrigerate the chocolate-coated protein balls until the chocolate hardens completely, approximately 15-20 minutes.

# Notes:

01 - These protein balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
02 - For a firmer texture, store in the freezer and allow to thaw slightly before serving.