Crunchy Chocolate Protein Bites
Introduction
Finding the perfect snack that is both delicious and allergy-friendly can be a challenge, especially when you’re looking to avoid the top nine allergens. For those with food allergies or sensitivities, creating snacks that are safe but still packed with flavor and nutrition is essential. That’s why these crunchy chocolate protein bites are a game-changer. Not only are they free from the top 9 allergens (wheat, dairy, eggs, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, and sesame), but they’re also vegan, high in protein, and incredibly tasty.
Whether you need a quick pick-me-up during the day, a post-workout snack, or a fun treat to share with friends and family, these bites are an ideal option. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of these allergen-free protein bites, the ingredients that make them both safe and satisfying, and how to make them step by step. With just a few simple ingredients and no baking required, you’ll have a healthy and indulgent snack ready in no time.
Why Choose Allergen-Free Snacks?
With food allergies on the rise, more people are seeking out snacks that are free from common allergens to ensure they can enjoy their food without risk. The top nine allergens—wheat, dairy, eggs, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, and sesame—can be difficult to avoid in many processed snacks, especially those that are store-bought. For individuals with food allergies, cross-contamination or mislabeled ingredients can be dangerous, making it important to stick to allergen-free, homemade options.
By choosing allergen-free snacks like these crunchy chocolate protein bites, you’re taking control of your health and well-being while also ensuring that your snacks are safe for everyone to enjoy. Plus, you don’t have to sacrifice taste or nutrition—these bites are a delicious combination of chocolate, protein, and crunch that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
Ingredients for Crunchy Chocolate Protein Bites (Top 9 Allergen-Free)
The beauty of these protein bites lies in their simplicity. They’re made from a handful of wholesome, allergen-free ingredients that are easy to find and easy to work with. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into these tasty treats.
Gluten-Free Crispy Rice Cereal: This gives the bites their signature crunch. Make sure to choose a certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal to avoid wheat or gluten contamination. This ingredient also adds lightness and texture to the bites.
Allergen-Free Chocolate Chips: Opt for allergy-friendly chocolate chips, such as those made by brands like Enjoy Life or Pascha, which are free from dairy, soy, and other common allergens. Dark or semi-sweet chocolate is perfect for adding that rich chocolate flavor.
Granola Butter: As a substitute for nut butters, granola butter or even sunflower seed butter provides creaminess and flavor without the risk of tree nuts or peanuts. It’s a great source of healthy fats and pairs well with chocolate.
Vegan Protein Powder: Adding protein powder boosts the nutritional value of these bites, making them more filling and supportive of muscle recovery. Look for a neutral or chocolate-flavored protein powder that is free from allergens like soy or dairy. Pea protein or rice protein powders are great options.
Crispy Quinoa (Optional): For an extra crunch and added protein, consider tossing some puffed or crispy quinoa into the mix. Quinoa is naturally gluten-free and rich in essential nutrients, adding another layer of texture to the bites.
Ingredients:
10oz Dairy free chocolate chips, I use Enjoy Life Brand
1/2 tbsp avocado oil or coconut oil
1 scoop chocolate protein of your choice
1/4 C Toasted quinoa (or extra rice crispy)
1/2 C Rice crispies, I used The Real Cereal Company Brand
Optional toppings:
Granola butter
Chopped freeze dried strawberries or raspberries
Link to mold used
*Using this mold each bite will be 5-10 calories each and a serving size would be 10 bites! Protein will vary spending on the brand you use but about 1g per bite and 10g per serving
Directions:
1. Place your mold on a sheet pan that will fit in your freezer
2. Melt the chocolate according to directions in the package with oil mixed in so all the chocolate is coated
3 Add the protein powder, quinoa and rise crispies. Mix until combined.
4. Fill each mold 3/4 of the way full. Add toppings and refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving
*Keep refrigerated in an air tight container up to 1 week or frozen for 3 months
Nutritional Benefits of Allergen-Free Chocolate Protein Bites
These crunchy chocolate protein bites are not just a delicious treat—they’re also packed with nutrition. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy when you snack on these bites:
- High in Protein: Thanks to the addition of vegan protein powder, these bites provide a protein boost that supports muscle repair, helps keep you fuller for longer, and provides sustained energy throughout the day.
- Healthy Fats: Sunflower seed butter is a great source of healthy fats, which are essential for brain health, hormone production, and overall well-being.
- Fiber and Antioxidants: Both the sunflower seed butter and the crispy quinoa (if used) provide fiber, which promotes good digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Meanwhile, the dark chocolate adds antioxidants that help fight oxidative stress and support heart health.
- Low Allergen Risk: Because these bites are free from the top 9 allergens, they are suitable for a wide range of dietary needs. Whether you’re gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, or soy-free, you can enjoy these bites without worry.
- Conclusion
- These crunchy chocolate protein bites are the perfect solution for anyone looking for a quick, allergen-free snack that’s both healthy and satisfying. Packed with plant-based protein, healthy fats, and plenty of crunch, they make an ideal on-the-go snack or post-workout treat. Best of all, they’re free from the top 9 allergens, so they’re safe for anyone with food sensitivities. In just 15 minutes, you can have a batch of these delicious bites ready to enjoy throughout the week.
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These are amazing! I made them earlier today with the same ingredients you used, but I’m trying to figure out how you calculated 5-10 calories per a bite on these? I am tracking my calories and macros so tried to calculate myself, but keep coming up with a much higher calorie count for these.
Hi! Did you use the same treat mold and brands I used?
I did. Same mold, chocolate, and rice cereal. I left out the toasted quinoa, but did not add more cereal. MFP said these were much higher in calories due to the chocolate.
Hi! I think that may be the issue. You don’t use all the chocolate that you melt. There’s very little chocolate actually used in each mold. So if you calculated it with the total chocolate that could be the issue