If you’re craving a nutritious, sweet snack that feels indulgent without the guilt, these Chunky Monkey Protein Balls (5 Ingredients) are just the treat you need. Combining the natural sweetness of dates and bananas with crunchy walnuts and rich dark chocolate chips, these little bites pack a serious flavor punch alongside a solid protein boost. They are deceptively simple to make yet utterly satisfying, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a post-workout snack that feels like a mini celebration for your taste buds.

Chunky Monkey Protein Balls (5 Ingredients) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Chunky Monkey Protein Balls (5 Ingredients) lies in the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—from lending creamy texture and earthy nuttiness to adding sweet, chocolaty notes that bring happiness with every bite.

Raw walnuts (2 cups plus extra): Soaking them softens their crunch and enhances digestibility while providing a rich, buttery flavor that’s essential for texture.
Medjool dates (6-8, pitted): These naturally sweet gems act as a natural binder and sweetener, giving the balls their chewy, luscious consistency.
Dark chocolate chips (1/4 cup): They deliver that classic chocolate charm in every bite, contrasting perfectly with the fruit and nuts.
Banana chunks (1 cup, roughly 2 small/medium bananas): Bananas add moistness and a creamy softness, balancing the crunch from walnuts and chocolate.
Protein powder (1/3 cup): I love using a simple pea protein powder like Nuzest Just Natural for clean, plant-based protein that keeps these bites super nutritious.
Ground flaxseeds or chia (1/4 cup, optional): These boost fiber and omega-3s, adding a slight nutty undertone and helping with the structure.

How to Make Chunky Monkey Protein Balls (5 Ingredients)

Step 1: Soak the Walnuts

Start by soaking 2 cups of raw walnuts overnight in water or, if you’re short on time, submerge them in hot water for about 2 hours. This softens the nuts, making them easier to blend and gentler on your digestion. After soaking, rinse and drain them thoroughly to get rid of any bitterness.

Step 2: Blend the Base Ingredients

Place the soaked walnuts, pitted medjool dates, protein powder, and ground flaxseeds into your food processor. Pulse and blend these together until you reach a smooth, sticky mixture—this is the foundation that will hold your protein balls together beautifully.

Step 3: Add Banana and Chocolate

Remove the bowl from the processor. Mash in the banana chunks gently using a spatula, then fold in the dark chocolate chips along with the extra walnuts you set aside. If you want, pulse lightly a few times to mix everything evenly while still keeping some delightful chunks of banana and walnuts intact for texture. This step gives the balls their characteristic chunkiness and irresistible flavor profile.

Step 4: Shape into Balls

With clean hands, roll the mixture into bite-sized balls. Don’t sweat perfection here—these are meant to be rustic, chunky, and packed with character. Place them on a tray or plate lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Chill and Store

Pop your Chunky Monkey Protein Balls (5 Ingredients) into the freezer to firm up. Once set, transfer them to an airtight container or ziplock bag to keep them fresh and ready for whenever you need a quick energy boost.

How to Serve Chunky Monkey Protein Balls (5 Ingredients)

Garnishes

Sprinkle some finely chopped walnuts or cacao nibs on top of the balls before chilling for an extra nutty crunch and a pretty finish. You can also lightly dust them with cocoa powder if you’re in the mood for a hint of bitterness to balance the sweetness.

Side Dishes

Serve these protein bombs alongside a fresh fruit salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a well-rounded snack or light breakfast. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or your favorite smoothie, making mornings more exciting.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your Chunky Monkey Protein Balls (5 Ingredients) on a colorful serving platter sprinkled with edible flowers or banana slices for a fun party platter. Alternatively, skewer them with toothpicks and serve as bite-sized appetizers at gatherings or pre-workout snacks for a group.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chunky Monkey Protein Balls keep best in a sealed container placed in the fridge for up to one week. This helps retain their freshness and chewiness, perfect for grabbing on-the-go.

Freezing

If you want to make a big batch, freezing is your best friend. Store the balls in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before eating.

Reheating

No reheating needed! These protein balls are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer them a little softer, just let them sit out for a while or pop them in your hand for a minute to warm slightly.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work well and offer slightly different textures and flavors. Keep in mind soaking times may vary, but the process remains the same.

What type of protein powder works best?

I recommend using a clean, mild-flavored protein powder like pea protein or vanilla plant-based blends. Avoid anything overly sweet to keep the natural flavors of the banana and dates shining through.

Are these protein balls suitable for kids?

Yes! Kids usually love the sweet, chocolatey taste and chewy texture. Just be mindful of nut allergies and adjust ingredients accordingly.

Can I make these balls without a food processor?

It’s tricky to get them perfectly combined without a food processor, but if you have a strong blender or a high-quality mixer, it might work. Otherwise, finely chopping the nuts and mashing the other ingredients can help, though it’s more labor-intensive.

What’s the shelf life once taken out of the freezer?

Once thawed, enjoy them within 3-4 days for the best taste and texture. Any longer, and they may start to dry out or lose their freshness.

Final Thoughts

I’m so excited for you to try making these Chunky Monkey Protein Balls (5 Ingredients) because they truly are a simple yet game-changing snack. They bring together wholesome ingredients in a way that’s fun, flavorful, and nourishing. Whether you’re packing them for work, the gym, or just need a little afternoon boost, these protein balls are destined to become a beloved staple. Happy snacking!

Chunky Monkey Protein Balls (5 Ingredients) Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 10 reviews

Author: Aiden
Total Time: 10 minutes active time plus soaking
Yield: Approximately 20 protein balls 1x
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

Chunky Monkey Protein Balls are a delicious and nutritious snack made with just a handful of wholesome ingredients including raw walnuts, medjool dates, banana, dark chocolate chips, and protein powder. These no-bake energy bites provide a perfect blend of natural sweetness, healthy fats, and plant-based protein, making them an ideal grab-and-go treat for a quick energy boost or post-workout recovery. Easy to prepare and customizable with optional ground flaxseeds or chia, these protein balls are freezer-friendly and packed with texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

2 cups raw walnuts, plus extra for mixing
6–8 large medjool dates, pitted
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup banana chunks (about 2 small or medium bananas)
1/3 cup protein powder (pea protein recommended, such as Nuzest Just Natural)

Optional Ingredients

1/4 cup ground flaxseeds or chia seeds

Instructions

Soak Walnuts: Soak 2 cups of raw walnuts overnight in water or for at least 2 hours in hot water. This softens the nuts, making them easier to blend and improving digestibility. After soaking, rinse and drain the walnuts thoroughly.
Blend Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the soaked walnuts, pitted medjool dates, protein powder, and ground flaxseeds (if using). Blend until the mixture is smooth and starts to come together.
Add Bananas and Chocolate: Transfer the blended mixture to a bowl and mash in the banana chunks using a spatula. Fold in the dark chocolate chips and the reserved extra walnuts to add texture.
Combine Mixture: Return the mixture briefly to the food processor and pulse a few times or fold everything well with a spatula to ensure all ingredients are well combined. Adjust texture by leaving bigger or smaller banana chunks according to your preference.
Form Balls and Store: Roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls. Place the protein balls in an airtight container and store them in the freezer to keep fresh and firm until ready to enjoy.

Notes

Using medjool dates adds natural sweetness to the protein balls without any refined sugar.
Soaking walnuts softens them for easier blending and better texture.
Choose your favorite plant-based protein powder; pea protein works well and keeps the recipe vegan.
The ground flaxseeds or chia seeds are optional but add beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.
Store protein balls in the freezer for up to 2-3 weeks for optimal freshness.
Feel free to substitute dark chocolate chips with cacao nibs for a less sweet option.

Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus soaking time: overnight or 2 hours)
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Snack
Method: No-Bake, Food Processor
Cuisine: American