Chocolate Brownie Protein Balls

Prep: 5 min Total: 5 min Servings: 6
Annie Lampella @ Ketofocus

By Annie Lampella, Pharm.D.

Published June 3, 2025 • Updated February 1, 2026

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5 Ingredients or LessCandyEasyEgg FreeHigh ProteinNut Free

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These 3-ingredient chocolate protein balls taste like fudgy brownies but look like decadent truffles. Each bite is packed with 9 grams of protein, making them the perfect no-bake keto snack when cravings hit.

If you’re looking for a low-carb treat that tastes like a brownie and looks like a fancy truffle, these chocolate protein balls are it. They’re bite-sized, fudgy, and feel like dessert but they’re made with just three ingredients, no baking required. And unlike most energy bites, there’s no nut butter involved. No almond butter. No peanut butter. Just simple ingredients that come together in minutes for a rich, chocolatey keto snack. A white and tan bowl holding several glossy chocolate protein balls on a light background. I’ve been all about easy, high protein snacks lately, and these chocolate protein balls have definitely earned a permanent spot in my weekly meal prep. They come together in one bowl (no food processor needed) and can be stashed in the fridge or freezer so you always have something ready when a craving hits. I love having a few on hand for something quick between meals or before a workout. They’re dense, satisfying, and taste way more indulgent than they are. What makes these even better is how customizable they are. You can roll them in cocoa powder or crushed nuts for a little texture, or keep them plain and simple. Either way, they feel like a treat but sneak in a solid amount of protein without added sugar or extra carbs messing with your energy. If you’re someone who’s been trying to get more protein in but doesn’t want to give up sweets, these are for you. All the brownie vibes, zero sugar.

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Chocolate Brownie Protein Balls

Prep 5m Total 5m 6 servings

Ingredients

Step by Step Instructions

Step by Step Instructions

1
Mix ingredients

In a small bowl, mix together the protein powder with the cocoa powder. Then pour in sugar-free simple syrup or maple syrup and mix until combined.

A mixing bowl with chocolate protein ball dough and a spoon on a light surface.
Tip If using a thick sugar-free maple syrup, you'll likely need to add more (about 1/2 cup).
Ingredients for this step
  • 2 scoops (48 g) chocolate protein powder
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/3 cup sugar-free simple syrup or maple syrup
2
Roll protein balls

Roll the dough into 6 equal sized balls. Place balls on a parchment lined baking tray.

Chocolate protein dough with one ball rolled on a small plate next to the bowl.
Tip If dough is not tacky enough to roll, add a bit more simple syrup. If too sticky, sprinkle in more protein powder.
3
Drizzle or coat with chocolate, optional step

Melt chocolate chips in a small bowl in the microwave at 30 second intervals until melted. Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the protein balls. Or dip each ball in the melted chocolate.

A tray showing chocolate protein balls in the process of being decorated with melted chocolate.
Ingredients for this step
  • 1/4 cup sugar-free chocolate chips, optional
4
Freeze them

Place protein balls in freezer for 30-60 minutes to set and for the chocolate to harden if using.

A tray of chocolate protein balls finished with white and dark chocolate drizzle designs.
Nutrition Per Serving 1 ball
41 Calories
0.4g Fat
9g Protein
0.3g Net Carbs
12.2g Total Carbs
6 Servings
Nutrition disclaimer

The nutrition information provided is an estimate and is for informational purposes only. I am a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.); however, this content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified health provider before making any lifestyle changes or beginning a new nutrition program.

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A bowl of chocolate protein balls, one with a bite revealing the smooth, fudgy interior.

How to make chocolate chip protein balls

If you want to turn these into chocolate chip protein balls, just mix in 1 to 2 tablespoons of sugar-free chocolate chips once your chocolate mixture is combined. That’s it. Super easy and adds the perfect little crunch and extra chocolate boost.

Other add ins

You can totally customize these protein balls with whatever extras you’re craving. Try tossing in some chopped nuts for crunch, unsweetened coconut flakes for a little texture, or even a pinch of sea salt on top to bring out the chocolate flavor. Hemp seeds, chia seeds, or a dash of cinnamon would be great too. Just keep it keto friendly and mix in whatever sounds good to you.

Storage information

These protein balls are best stored in the fridge or freezer. I like to keep mine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, but they’ll last even longer in the freezer. Just let them sit out for a few minutes before eating so they’re not rock solid. Perfect for grabbing on the go or when you need a quick protein boost.
Chocolate Brownie Protein Balls

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any chocolate protein powder?

I used whey protein for these, which works great, but if you're using a plant-based protein, start with less since it's more absorbent. You can always add more if needed. With whey, I usually skip any extra liquid at first, then add a splash if the dough feels too dry. If your batter ends up too sticky, mix in a little more protein powder or a low-carb flour like almond, coconut, or oat fiber.

Can I use collagen powder instead of protein powder?

Collagen doesn’t work the same here since it dissolves too easily and won’t help bind the dough.

Why are my protein balls so sticky?

These protein balls are meant to be slightly sticky. That’s what gives them that rich, fudgy texture. But if sticky isn't your thing, you’ve got options. You can coat them completely in melted chocolate to seal in the gooey center, or pop them in the freezer to firm up. If your batter is way too wet and not holding together, it’s probably because your protein powder has less absorbency. No big deal. You can mix in a little more protein powder or add a bit of a low-carb flour like oat fiber, almond flour, or coconut flour to help soak up the extra moisture.

About the Author
Annie Lampella, Pharm.D.

Annie Lampella, Pharm.D.

Annie is a Doctor of Pharmacy, mom, and the recipe creator behind KetoFocus. With a B.S. in Genetics from UC Davis, she has over 14 years of experience developing family-friendly keto recipes based on the science of human metabolism.

Learn more about Annie View My Cookbook

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