cinnamon raisin peanut butter protein balls

I gotta say, I’m surprised there are those of you out there that aren’t big cake fans! I know a couple people that don’t really like cake, and I always think it’s odd. I guess I’m picky with my cake.  Usually it’s too sweet sweet for me, especially store bought cake with that thick frosting. Bleh!

Today we’re not talking cake, but something almost as equally delicious – balls.

Cinnamon raisin peanut butter protein balls to be exact. I made a big batch of these to take along with me during my all day cycle workshop. They’re portable, bite sized and tasty. Packed with whole grain carbs, peanut buttery fats to hold you over and protein (+ fiber!) from the secret hidden beans.

Since I was already baking a triple chocolate cake over the weekend, I decided to forgo the chocolate chips like my original recipe calls for. Instead I subbed in some natures sweetness – raisins. Raisins definitely fulfill my sweet tooth when it’s hankering. Dates as well. They both work great as a pre-workout snack too. I just pop a few in my mouth before a workout and I feel a bit more energized. The dried fruit that is.

These balls work better as a post-workout snack for me. Since there are beans in there eating quite a few before a workout might leave your tummy feeling a bit wonky. I know it did for me. Oh my.

But after a workout, have at em!

Part of my weekend consisted of finding a swim suit. My preggo self doesn’t seem to fit in any of my old ones anymore, so off to Ross I went in search for an inexpensive bikini. I went with a 2 piece, figuring as the belly grows the stretch of a one piece might be an issue. After trying on tons and tons and tons of bikinis I finally found one that worked. The best part – it was just $10! I love bargains.

Yesterday morning I woke up early and headed to water aerobics. I LOVED every minute being back in the water. I cannot tell you how good it felt to bounce around lightly. Water + pregnancy is a good thing.

When I got back home I couldn’t wait for breakfast so I popped a couple of these goodies in my mouth while I showered + got ready for the day. They held me over for that little bit before breakfast. Swimming (or any water exercise) makes me so hungry! I’ll just make sure not to eat them before I go to my next water aerobics class. Nobody will want that.

Cinnamon Raisin Peanut Butter Protein Balls
Makes about 25-35 balls

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup dry roasted peanuts
• 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 3/4 cup natural peanut butter
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/3 cup raisins
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• Pinch of sea salt

Directions

1. Combine the peanut and chickpeas in the food processor.  Pulse until both turn into a fine crumble.  Add in the remaining ingredients.  Pulse until fully combined.
2. Roll mixture into balls, allow to refrigerate (or freeze) for 20-30 minutes to set, then devour!
3. Keep extra balls in the fridge (or freezer!).

Do you have a favorite portable post workout snack?

Heather