Savory Birthday Protein Balls (Vegan & Gluten-Free)

This feels like the kind of playful twist that shouldn’t work but somehow does. A savory bite that still carries that “birthday” feeling, just in a quieter, more grounded way.

They’re soft, slightly creamy inside, with a gentle saltiness and a few colorful bits that echo the idea of sprinkles without turning sweet. Something you can snack on slowly or put on a table without explaining too much.

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Savory Birthday Protein Balls

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⏱️ Time & Prep

Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: ~45 minutes
Yield: 12–15 balls

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Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 100 g firm tofu
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 5 tbsp coconut flour
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2–3 tbsp plant-based milk (as needed)
• 2 tbsp finely diced colorful vegetables (red bell pepper, yellow pepper, chives)

For coating (optional "savory sprinkles")

• 1 tbsp finely chopped herbs (parsley, chives)
• 1 tbsp very finely diced bell pepper
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (355°F) and line a baking tray.
2. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tofu, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Blend until mostly smooth but still slightly textured.
4. Add coconut flour and oat flour, then pulse again until combined.
5. Gradually add plant-based milk until the mixture becomes soft and slightly sticky but holds together.
6. Fold in half of the diced colorful vegetables.
7. Scoop portions and form into small balls, then gently flatten into rustic patties.
8. Press the remaining vegetables on top to create the “birthday sprinkle” look.
9. Sprinkle with herbs and sesame seeds.
10. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until lightly golden and set.
11. Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. They firm up as they rest.

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Notes / Variations

• You can swap chickpeas for white beans for a softer texture
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor
• For more protein, mix in 1–2 tbsp plant-based protein powder (unflavored)
• If you want more of a "birthday look," make the vegetable pieces extra fine and colorful

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Nutrition (per ball, assuming 14)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~75 kcal
Protein	4 g
Fat	1.5 g
Carbohydrates	9 g
Fiber	2 g

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