Nutty, earthy and gently sweet, these Matcha Latte Protein Balls are a convenient, no-bake snack inspired by the classic hot drink. The blend of matcha and dry milk powder gives a creamy, latte-like flavor, while hemp seeds add a buttery smoothness and extra nutrition. With just seven ingredients and about five minutes of active time, these protein balls make an easy post-workout snack, dessert alternative, or grab-and-go treat.
Why I Love This Recipe
- No-bake and fuss-free
- Ready in minutes and easy to prepare
- Made with wholesome, simple ingredients
- High in protein and fiber to help you feel full longer
- Low calorie and low carb options to suit weight-loss goals
- Perfect as a healthier dessert or a post-workout snack
Ingredients for Collagen Matcha Latte Protein Balls
- Collagen peptides powder – provides the chewy, cookie-like texture these balls are known for. If omitted, the texture will differ and you may need to adjust liquids.
- Coconut flour – a low-carb, gluten-free flour that absorbs liquid quickly; it helps firm the dough. If substituting, expect to change other ingredient amounts.
- Sugar of choice – monk fruit sweetener keeps the recipe low-sugar and low-carb; raw cane sugar, coconut sugar, dates or maple sugar can be used instead.
- Dry milk powder (optional) – adds a creamy, milky flavor without extra liquid; omit for a dairy-free option.
- Matcha powder – ceremonial grade preferred for best color and flavor, though everyday matcha works too.
- Milk of choice – unsweetened almond milk, dairy milk, plant milk or even water to bring the dough together.
- Hemp seeds (or hemp hearts) – contribute a smooth, buttery mouthfeel; flax or chia can be used if needed.
Step by Step
STEP 1
Combine the dry ingredients: collagen peptides, coconut flour, sweetener, dry milk powder (if using) and matcha powder in a bowl.
STEP 2
Stir in the almond milk (or chosen liquid) and use your hands to knead the mixture until it forms a cohesive dough. Knead about 1 minute; add up to 1 tablespoon extra liquid only if needed. If too soft, add more coconut flour in ½ tablespoon increments.
STEP 3
Fold in the hemp seeds until evenly distributed.
STEP 4
Roll the mixture into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on a tray. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to set.
STEP 5
Enjoy immediately or store as directed below.
Variations and Optional Add-Ins
- Add natural extracts such as vanilla, lemon, or almond for different flavor profiles. If using extracts with alcohol and serving to children, choose non-alcoholic options.
- Mix in chopped nuts, oats, ground flaxseed, chia or extra seeds for additional texture and nutrition.
- Swap sweeteners or adjust the amount to taste; for a lower-carb option, use monk fruit or erythritol.
How to Make This Healthier
- Boost fiber and healthy fats by adding a handful of nuts, oats or an extra tablespoon of ground flaxseed, hemp seeds or chia seeds.
Delicious Add-In Ideas
To vary texture and flavor, try adding dried fruit, cacao nibs, nut butter swirls or sprinkles. Simple add-ins keep these protein balls interesting and customizable to your preferences.
Collagen Peptides FAQ
What are collagen peptides?
Collagen peptides are hydrolyzed collagen proteins—short chains of amino acids that can support skin, hair, nail, bone and joint health. They dissolve easily into recipes and beverages.
Are collagen peptides vegan?
Most commercial collagen peptides are sourced from animals (such as bovine hides) and are therefore not suitable for vegan diets. Always check the product label for sourcing and certifications.
Notes on Substitutions
Can I use other protein powders instead of collagen?
Collagen contributes a specific dense, chewy texture to these protein balls. Using other proteins (whey, pea, hemp, egg, etc.) will change the texture and likely require more liquid. If you substitute, add liquid slowly and expect a different consistency.
Can I substitute coconut flour?
Coconut flour absorbs far more liquid than other flours. Substituting almond or oat flour will require recipe adjustments (less liquid, different proportions), so substitutions are not recommended unless you are comfortable modifying the recipe.
Storage
- Store covered in the refrigerator for the best texture; they stay fresh 5–7 days.
- Room temperature storage is okay for 1–2 days.
- Freeze in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 4 months. Double-bagging helps prevent fridge/freezer odors.
Final Tips
- Add liquid sparingly: collagen powder softens as you knead, so only add extra liquid at the end if necessary.
- If the dough becomes too soft, rescue it with small additions of coconut flour. If too dry, add liquid by the teaspoon until it comes together.
Power Packed Matcha Latte Protein Balls
10 mins
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup collagen peptides powder
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 3 Tbsp monk fruit sweetener (or sugar of choice)
- 1 tsp matcha powder
- 1/4 cup dry milk powder (optional)
- 3 Tbsp almond milk (or milk of choice or water)
- 6 Tbsp hemp seeds (or hemp hearts)
Instructions
- Mix the dry ingredients: collagen, coconut flour, sweetener, matcha and dry milk powder (if using).
- Stir in the milk and knead by hand until a dough forms. The dough will soften as you knead.
- If too dry, add almond milk 1 teaspoon at a time. If too soft, add coconut flour 1/2 Tbsp at a time.
- Fold in hemp seeds.
- Roll into tablespoon-sized balls and refrigerate to set. Serve and enjoy.
Notes
¼ cup collagen peptides is approximately 2 scoops (about 20 g) for reference. For a low-carb option, use a sugar-free sweetener. Dry milk powder is optional but enhances the creamy, latte-like flavor.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 4 g
Protein: 9 g
Fat: 5 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 2 g
Net Carbs: 3 g
Leave a rating or comment to let me know how it turned out and what variations you’d like to see next.