Mali’s Date and Coconut Protein Balls

Mali’s Date and Coconut Protein Balls

These quick and nourishing protein balls are perfect for school lunchboxes, afternoon snacks, and busy families. They are naturally sweetened, full of fibre, and contain healthy fats that support steady energy.


Ingredients
  • 1 cup rolled oats

  • 2 tablespoons cacao powder

  • 12 pitted dates

  • 1 cup desiccated coconut

  • 2–3 tablespoons pure maple syrup


Method
  1. Add rolled oats, cacao powder, dates, coconut, and maple syrup to a food processor.

  2. Blend until the mixture becomes sticky and dough-like.

  3. Roll into bite-sized balls.

  4. Coat each ball in extra coconut.

Storage: Keep in the fridge for up to 7 days.


Why these protein balls are good for your gut health
  • Dates offer natural sweetness and soluble fibre to feed beneficial gut bacteria and support regular digestion.

  • Rolled oats contain beta-glucan, a powerful prebiotic fibre that helps balance cholesterol and stabilise blood sugar.

  • Cacao provides polyphenols and antioxidants that encourage microbial diversity.

  • Coconut adds extra fibre and healthy fats to keep you full and slow digestion gently.

  • Maple syrup, in small amounts, sweetens without the blood sugar spike of refined sugar.

Together, these ingredients create a balanced whole-food snack that supports digestion, steady energy, and a healthy gut microbiome.