December 13, 2022

Gingerbread Protein Ball Recipe

Whether it’s sipping a seasonal latte, decorating a house with icing and gumdrops, or adding it to your holiday party cookie tray, gingerbread is here to stay during the Christmas holiday season.

But what if you could turn a festive favorite into a treat that’s nutritious and delicious?

Now you can.

If we’re honest, it’s easy to fall off the bandwagon with healthy eating and staying active this time of year. Traveling, holiday events, and end-of-year company deadlines can throw anyone off their normal routine.

And if you’re around people who like to bake, it’s nearly impossible to say no to all the homemade cookies, candies, and pies. The occasional treat may be ok but eating too many carbohydrates and sugars can quickly wreck your mood (3), metabolism, and muscle-strengthening efforts.

That’s why this recipe will be one you (hopefully) keep on hand. Protein balls are simple to make, fun to eat, and nourishing to your body. And because of their high protein count, they make great:

Great post-workout snacks
Healthy desserts
Sustainable energy boosts
After-school snacks for kids and teenagers

This quick and easy recipe is inspired by Natalie’s Health (1), but we’re shaking things up by adding a special KaraMD ingredient – ProBio Amplify! Now you also get the gut health benefits (5) in addition to the other superfood ingredients.

Why Ginger?

Gingerbread has that sweet and spicy flavor that gets its kick from the ginger root. While ginger originates from places like Asia, the exact history of gingerbread is unclear. Some records say that the first gingerbread recipe came about in Greece nearly 4,400 years ago (2). The Silk Road may have enabled merchants to bring it into areas like Europe, where people began using the root in recipes for cultural events.

In ancient times, natural herbs and spices were used to help enhance meals and treats. This tan, knobby root not only adds a spicy flavor, it also has a few health benefits (4) including:

Anti-inflammatory properties
Bloating and gas relief
Indigestion relief
Nausea relief from pregnancy or chemotherapy
Protection against oxidative stress

To make it even better, this no-bake recipe is flavorful, gluten-free and vegan. So get your spoons and aprons out and let’s begin!

Ingredients

10 Medjool dates soaked in warm water
½ cup organic, raw almonds
½ cup organic, raw walnuts
¼ cup organic, raw pumpkin seeds
¼ cup organic flax seeds
1 tablespoon Blackstrap molasses
1 teaspoon fresh or ground ginger (fresh is better)
¼ teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
2-3 capsules KaraMD ProBio Amplify, opened
Date water, as needed to keep moist
Pinch of cloves
½ teaspoon kosher sea salt (optional)

A few coating options:

cinnamon sugar
chia seeds
coconut flakes (optional)
coconut sugar
cocoa powder
cinnamon
crushed nuts

Instructions

Remove the pits from each of the dates and soak them in warm water for 3-5 minutes. Drain the dates but set the water aside for later.
Next, combine all the remaining ingredients (except for your coating options) a food processor. Blend on the high setting until a ball begins to form. It should be smooth throughout.
Check the texture by pinching some of the dough between your fingers. The consistency should be sticky and able to keep its shape. If it’s too dry, add more of the water you used to soak the dates.
Use a tablespoon to scoop out dough. Gently roll the dough between your palms to form individual balls.
Then, roll them in the coating of your choice. Shake off any excess and place on either a parchment paper lined baking sheet or plate.
Place in the refrigerator to harden, between 20-30 minutes.

Storage

Make an extra batch to enjoy later? Here are a few ways to keep this tasty treat fresh:

Fridge: Store leftovers in a sealed container for up to 7 days.
Freezer: You can store leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge or at room temperature for 5-10 minutes.
Room Temperature: It’s not ideal to store these at room temperature as they’ll begin to soften. If you’re taking them with you, it should be ok. Keep distance in mind.

Back to You

The holidays can be a fun time of getting together with friends and family and trying new things. One of those things can be food --- there’s always a new recipe to try!

But if you’re concerned about eating too many sweets, it’s a good idea to keep a healthy option on hand. These gingerbread protein balls are a great way to add some flare to a classic flavor. Not only do they have the health benefits of ginger root, but they’re also full of protein, fiber, and antioxidants that will keep your energy levels up and your spirits bright.

Do you know someone who loves gingerbread? Share this recipe with them today!

References & Disclaimers

1. https://www.natalieshealth.com/gingerbread-energy-balls/

2. https://www.pbs.org/food/the-history-kitchen/history-gingerbread/

3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5532289/

4. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/ginger-benefits

✝✝This noted statement is based on independent research and is not necessarily the opinion of the author