If you haven’t caught on by now, I LOVE protein balls. They’re the perfect solution to my afternoon snack search or the sweet treat that’s always needed post-dinner. And when a good family friend of mine asked for ways to utilize the collagen she just purchased, I immediately began brainstorming.
In this recipe, I use my favorite Bulletproof Chocolate Collagen Protein Powder, but any collagen you have on hand is perfect! In this case, just add a bit more cacao powder if you’re using a flavorless alternative. Vital Proteins and Collagen M.D. are a couple of my other favorite brands if you’re needing a little guidance. Regardless, the addition of collagen adds hair, skin, nail and joint-loving goodness.
Collagen is an important building-block for our skin and connective tissues, which are made up of these proteins. Incorporating additional collagen into your diet helps stimulate the body’s own production of collagen, which naturally declines as we age.
Personally, I add a scoop of plain collagen powder to my coffee every morning, because it dissolves completely and is totally flavorless. Though it’s part of my daily routine, I’m always looking for other, creative ways to include this goodness into my diet as well.
*Related Side Note* I DO believe that collagen has made a real difference for me. I’ve found that my nails and hair are both stronger and grow longer than they ever did previously. Plus, as a runner, I want to take care of my joints, and this has helped significantly. Some people don’t find that collagen makes a difference for them, so do what is best for YOU!
Okay, back to the deets. As for the other ingredients in these sweet, nutty, protein-filled balls, I went back to the basics with dates and walnuts. The pistachios are also just the crunch and flavor these bites need. Plus, pistachios are loaded with nutrients, antioxidants and gut-loving properties (added bonus).
These chocolate-y, slightly sweet and satisfying balls taste just as good as they are good for you. And they’re a great way to add more nourishing collagen into your diet. Give it a try, and let your strengthened body and beautiful skin speak for themselves!
- 1 ½ cups raw shelled pistachios (unsalted)
- 2 cups raw walnuts
- 20 pitted dates
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tbsp melted coconut oil
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp raw cacao powder
- 1 scoop Bulletproof Chocolate Collagen Protein Powder (or plain collagen powder, plus another tbsp of raw cacao powder)
- ½ tbsp pink Himalayan sea salt
*Note* If your dates are dry to begin with, the mixture might crumble and not stick together. If so, simply soak the dates in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften before blending.
Enjoy!
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