Description

These moist, tangy, and chewy protein bites are a perfect no-bake snack packed with healthy fats and bright lemon flavor. Made with just five simple ingredients, they are gluten-free, dairy-free, and ideal for meal prep or outdoor snacking.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups (140g) unsweetened fine-shred coconut
1 scoop (30g) vanilla whey or plant-based protein powder
2 tablespoons (20g) chia seeds
3–4 tablespoons (45-60ml) fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons (5g) fresh lemon zest
1 small (50g) ripe banana, mashed
2 tablespoons (20g) white chocolate chips (optional)
2 tablespoons (15g) desiccated coconut (for rolling)

Instructions

If using large-shred coconut, pulse it in a food processor for 10-15 seconds until it resembles coarse sand or flour.
Add the processed coconut, protein powder, and chia seeds to the food processor. Pulse a few times to combine the dry ingredients evenly.
Add the mashed banana, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest to the food processor. Pulse again, stopping to scrape down the sides with a spatula.
Check the consistency; it should resemble damp sand that holds together when squeezed. If too dry, add a teaspoon of lemon juice or water. If too wet, add a sprinkle of coconut or protein powder.
Wet your hands slightly with water or coconut oil to prevent sticking. Scoop about a tablespoon of mixture and roll into a ball between your palms.
Place the bites on a silicone mat or parchment paper. Repeat until all mixture is used, aiming for 15-20 uniform bites.
Refrigerate the tray for at least 30 minutes (or freeze for 15 minutes) to allow chia seeds to expand and bites to firm up.
Roll the chilled bites in desiccated coconut if desired, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Notes

Use ripe bananas with brown spots for natural sweetness. Fresh lemon zest is essential for flavor; bottled juice tastes flat. Different protein powders absorb moisture differently, so adjust liquid content as needed. These bites hold up well in hot weather if kept cool.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Snack
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bite
Calories: 75
Sugar: 3
Sodium: 15
Fat: 4
Saturated Fat: 3
Carbohydrates: 6
Fiber: 1
Protein: 4

Keywords: no-bake, protein bites, lemon coconut, healthy snack, gluten-free, dairy-free, meal prep, high protein, low sugar, vegan option