Indulge in these Ferrero Rocher protein balls — a healthier take on classic chocolate truffles. Made with wholesome ingredients, they're a delicious, high-protein snack!

Overhead shot of Ferrero Rocher protein balls on a plate, including one with a bite taken out of it.

These homemade Ferrero Rocher protein balls are about to become your new favourite snack.

They're full of protein and healthy fats, and for extra indulgence, they're finished off with melted dark chocolate and chopped hazelnuts.

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Flavour Profile
Meet the Recipe Developer
Why We Love It
Test Kitchen Notes
Ingredients and Substitutions
📖 Recipe

Flavour Profile

🍫 Cholatey
🌰 Nutty
🍬 Sweet

Meet the Recipe Developer

Author photo for @run2food, in a polaroid frame.

Michelle is the face behind the popular Instagram, @run2food where she shares easy, high-protein treats for busy people to her 144,000 followers!

If you love sweets, want to meet your protein goals or just need more deliciousness in your life, give her a follow.

Why We Love It

These aren't your average energy balls. These vegan protein Ferrero Rocher balls will make you feel like you're eating the real candy — but even better!
Healthy protein balls are the perfect dessert. Full of chocolate flavour, but with extra goodness.

Cross-section view of a Ferrero Rocher protein ball with a bite taken out of it, showing a hazelnut in the centre.

Test Kitchen Notes

When blending the dates and protein mixture, scrape down the sides of the blender frequently to ensure an even consistency and prevent dry spots. Adding a splash of reserved date water can help if the mixture isn’t sticking together.
Rolling the protein balls around a whole roasted hazelnut gives them that signature Ferrero Rocher crunch — be sure to press the hazelnut pieces firmly into the centre for an even texture.
For a smooth, glossy finish, dip the protein balls into melted chocolate using a fork, letting the excess drip off before sprinkling with chopped nuts for the perfect finishing touch.

Ingredients and Substitutions

Protein Balls

Almonds: You can swap these out with any nut you prefer. Alternatively, you could also use 1.5 cups of almond meal.
Cocoa powder: You can swap this for cacao powder instead but it may taste slightly more bitter.
Vegan protein powder: Whey protein will also work here, but you may need to adjust how much liquid you add, as it absorbs water differently than vegan protein.
Dates: Medjool dates are the best type of date to use in this recipe.
Hazelnut butter: You can swap this for a chocolate hazelnut spread. If you don't have that, almond butter or peanut butter would also work but would change the flavour.
Maple syrup: You can swap this for honey, date syrup or rice syrup.

Chocolate Coating

Dark chocolate: This can be substituted for milk chocolate or white chocolate.
Hazelnuts: These are the signature Ferrero Rocher centre! If you'd like, swap for another nut.