Description
These no-bake lemon coconut protein bites are a refreshing, high-protein, and low-sugar treat that requires no oven. They are gluten-free, easy to make, and perfect for meal prep or healthy snacking.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups (120g) unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup (100g) vanilla protein powder (whey isolate or plant-based blend)
- 2 tsp fresh lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp (32g) creamy almond butter
- 1 tbsp (20g) maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line a small baking sheet or plate with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut and protein powder. Whisk together to break up any clumps.
- Add the almond butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients.
- Stir vigorously with a spoon until the mixture forms a sticky dough. If too dry, add a teaspoon of almond butter or lemon juice; if too wet, add a sprinkle of coconut.
- Pinch off pieces of dough (about 15-20g) and roll between your palms to form smooth balls. Place on the parchment-lined sheet.
- Refrigerate the bites for at least 30 minutes to firm up, or freeze for 15 minutes if in a hurry.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice and zest for best flavor; avoid bottled lemon juice. Whey isolate protein powder works best to prevent a gummy texture. If using casein protein, the bites may become rubbery. For nut-free versions, substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter. For dairy-free/vegan, use plant-based protein and coconut oil or seed butter.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite (approx. 20g)
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 15
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 5
Keywords: no-bake, protein bites, lemon coconut, healthy snack, keto friendly, gluten-free, meal prep, high protein, low sugar