Almond Flour

Chocolate Chip Pancake Protein Balls |Dairy, Gluten, & Grain Free|

March 1, 2019

The other day I started grinding some pecans and almonds in my blender to make some nut butter when I realized we were almost out of protein balls. That occurrence is just NOT allowed to this house.

So, there I had a roasted, pecan-pie-like butter to use in the protein balls and I began adding ingredients. I started off adding vanilla, coconut oil, collagen peptides, and almond flour…as I do with most of my protein ball recipes. I always add sugar or honey last so I can adjust accordingly. Sometimes, they just don’t need very much, if any.

I kept adding ingredients and still couldn’t figure out exactly what flavor I was making. I started to get scared. In the past when I’ve been in similar situations, I’ve ended up with 5 dozen really weird protein balls that my husband HAD to eat because I hate waste. haha! I just kept adding ingredient after ingredient and all of a sudden I had a huge bowl of protein ball mess. I kept thinking…Jon is going to be none to pleased if I screw up a batch again.

Before I added any weird specifically flavored ingredient, I decided to just add some chocolate chips and call it a day. I figured this would just be a recipe I’d scratch and nothing that great would come out of it. Then I tasted it and it was delicious…but I had no clue what flavor it was. It was familiar, yet I HAD NO CLUE.

My husband came home from work the other day, tried one, and was like, “Mmm…chocolate chip pancakes.”

THAT WAS EXACTLY IT! Leave it to my husband, who can never describe flavors whatsoever, to come up with exactly what these reminded me of.

These Chocolate Chip Protein Balls may be free of lots of things, like dairy, gluten, grains, but they sure pack in some good, comforting flavor (and lots of healthy fats and protein!) when it’s snack time or you’re just looking for a quick breakfast as you run out the door.

Add these protein balls to your meal prep plans for next week. I promise, You won’t be disappointed!

Don’t forget to save the recipe to your Pinterest board for later! Tag @butteraddictgonepaleo on Instagram and Facebook if you make these! I’d love to see it!

Print Recipe
Chocolate Chip Pancake Protein Balls |Dairy, Gluten, & Grain Free|
Prep Time 30 minutes
Servings
balls
Ingredients
Prep Time 30 minutes
Servings
balls
Ingredients
Instructions
  1. In a high-powered blender or food processor, blend the pecans, almonds, and coconut oil until smooth.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the nut mixture with the remaining ingredients until well combined.
  3. Onto a lined tray or baking sheet, scoop out heaping tablespoon sized balls. I use a melon baller scoop for this - it makes it SO quick and easy!
  4. Freeze the protein balls for 15-20 minutes or refrigerate overnight.
  5. Store in an airtight container in the fridge/freezer.

Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy {Paleo, Keto, & Whole30}

January 9, 2019

Comfort food, comfort food, comfort food. That’s what I’m all about. It doesn’t matter if you’re following a paleo, keto, or whole30 diet, comfort food is still something very do-able!

Growing up, one of mine and my little brother’s favorite meals was salisbury steak. I’m talking about that over-processed, frozen entree dinner that you can find at numerous grocery stores.

Yea, THAT STUFF.

This Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy is reminiscent to that meal – just way better for you! Plus, you can control the seasonings with this too!

Sometimes, those meals can just be SO salty.

It’s dairy, gluten, and grain free, and super easy to mix together. Caramelizing the onions takes that extra few minutes, but it’s so worth it for that rich onion flavor in the gravy! I could eat the gravy like soup…because I have an obsession with all things gravy.

But seriously, it’s gooooood and the epitome of comfort food!

Print Recipe
Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy {Paleo, Keto, & Whole30}
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings
steaks
Ingredients
Hamburger Steaks
Gravy
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings
steaks
Ingredients
Hamburger Steaks
Gravy
Instructions
  1. In a large saute pan, caramelize onions for 10 minutes in 1 tbsp of avocado oil and 1/2 tsp salt.
  2. While the onions are caramelizing, combine gently (don't overwork the meat): ground beef, 1 1/2 tsp salt, thyme leaves, 1 tsp black pepper, garlic powder, 2 tsp onion powder, 2 tbsp coconut aminos, 2 tbsp minced onions, almond flour, and 3 tbsp nutpods.
  3. Once the onions have started to caramelize and brown around the edges, move them to the sides of the pan.
  4. Add in 1 tbsp of oil to the center and increase the heat to medium high.
  5. Divide the ground beef mixture into four patties.
  6. Evenly place the four patties in the center of the pan and cook for 3 1/2 minutes.
  7. Flip the patties, reduce the heat to med low and cook for another 3 minutes.
  8. Remove the patties from the pan, place on a plate or tray and tightly cover with foil.
  9. To the pan with the onions, add in beef broth and cook for 2-3 minutes over medium heat. Make sure to stir to pick up all of the pan drippings and browned meat that might have been left behind. That's all good flavor that will make the best gravy!
  10. In a mixing bowl, whisk to combine: 4 tbsp of nutpods, 2 tbsp coconut aminos, 1 tsp onion powder, fresh cracked peppers, and arrowroot powder.
  11. To the broth, whisk in the cream mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  12. Add the hamburger steaks back into the gravy, cover each steak with a spoonful of gravy, and cook for 5 minutes on med low.
  13. Once the gravy is thickened completely, serve immediately over cauliflower rice or mashed potatoes!

Berry Cobbler Protein Balls {Paleo, Keto, & Whole30}

January 8, 2019

I wanted to try making a protein ball that was not only paleo & whole30, but also keto – meaning it’s low in carbs too! Typically, I sweeten protein balls with coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup, but these Berry Cobbler Protein Balls are free of all of those – including any sweetener substitute. I definitely would not consider these to be my sweetest creation, but feel free to add a couple tablespoons of honey or your favorite sweetener, if desired!

I find that the acai powder gives it a tart sweetness, and not much else is needed. Try them without the honey and then add some – only if you feel that it is necessary! They’re a great snack to keep on hand when you’re trying to break a sugar habit or simply cut back and reduce your intake!

These Berry Cobbler Protein Balls are packed with healthy fats and protein to keep you held over longer until your next meal.

After all, isn’t that the point of a snack?

I mean, they ARE pretty tasty too.

Protein balls are a staple in our house. When there isn’t a bag in the fridge or freezer, my husband is at a loss. Next time you’re meal prepping, whip up a batch of these and you’ll be set for the week!

If you try these protein balls out, tag @butteraddictgonepaleo on Instagram!

Print Recipe
Berry Cobbler Protein Balls {Paleo, Keto, & Whole30}
Prep Time 5 minutes
Passive Time 1-2 hours of cooling
Servings
balls
Ingredients
Prep Time 5 minutes
Passive Time 1-2 hours of cooling
Servings
balls
Ingredients
Instructions
  1. In a food processor or high powered blender, blend the nuts and melted coconut oil until fairly smooth. It's ok if it's still slightly chunky.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the nut/oil mixture (basically runny nut butter)and the remaining ingredients.
  3. Scoop out 1-2 tbsp sized balls onto a lined baking sheet/tray.
  4. Freeze for 20 minutes or refrigerator for 1-2 hours until firm.
  5. Store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.
Recipe Notes

*If you're not following a whole30 or don't want to use the pea protein powder, you can sub your favorite unflavored or vanilla protein powder

**If you don't use the honey, add in 2 extra tbsp of melted coconut oil. Taste it before adding either and see if you need the sweetness. If not, stick with just adding the extra coconut oil. 

Sugar Cookie Protein Balls {Dairy, Gluten, Grain Free}

December 11, 2018

Convenient snacks are either expensive or not-so-healthy…or BOTH. That’s why I tend to make my own – like these Sugar Cookie Protein Balls. They’re full of healthy fats, carbs, protein, and fiber. That’s a pretty good balance when it comes to snacks in my opinion!

Protein balls are great to have on hand when you want a quick little snack, and they’re also great to pack in lunches! They’re a staple in my husband’s daily lunch. 

These Sugar Cookie Protein Balls are festive for the season, but are still a great flavor year round! There may be a bit of a weird ingredient in these SUGAR COOKIE protein balls (I’ll give you a hint: it rhymes with kinnamon – LOL) … but it seriously does just the trick for giving these that sugar cookie flavor. Don’t ask me how – IT JUST DOES! 

Grab the recipe below or pin this to your healthy snack board on Pinterest to save for later!

Print Recipe
Sugar Cookie Protein Balls {Dairy, Gluten, Grain Free}
Prep Time 10 minutes
Passive Time 1-2 hours of cooling
Servings
balls
Ingredients
Prep Time 10 minutes
Passive Time 1-2 hours of cooling
Servings
balls
Ingredients
Instructions
  1. In a food processor or high powered blender, blend almonds and coconut oil until fairly smooth. It's ok if it's still a little chunky. You just want it to be like runny nut butter.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the almond/coconut oil mixture with remaining ingredients. Adjust the cinnamon (and salt, if you prefer things a little more salty - like my husband!) at this point.
  3. Onto a lined baking sheet/tray, scoop out individual balls. I like to use a melon baller scoop. It makes things super easy and QUICK!
  4. Freeze the protein balls for 20-30 minutes or refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
  5. I store these in the refrigerator or freezer and just pop 3-4 into a bag or container for lunches each day, as needed.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars {Dairy, Gluten, & Grain Free/Vegan}

November 19, 2018
Course

When fall rolls around, I’m definitely guilty of going all out on the pumpkin! However, I don’t usually stop when the season is over.

Anyone else?

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars have been requested by my husband ever since I first made them. I’ve found that I’m hesitant to make them too often, as he will most likely eat them all within two days and then yell at me for listening to his requests. haha! I take it as a compliment though – He’s my number one fan and almost always willing to be my taste tester.

Seriously though, these are delicious and no one would guess that they’re free of dairy, gluten, and grains and refined sugars. These bars are filled with ingredients that your body will know what to do with! They keep well in the fridge, so you could definitely make ahead of time for thanksgiving festivities later on during the week!

 

And THAT CRUST! It’s like a pecan shortbread, and it’s the perfect compliment to the pumpkin cheesecake flavor. If you’re not a fan of pecan, you could just substitute more almond flour or a unflavored protein powder of your liking!

You could use the “cheesecake” part and the crust are a base for another bar. Drizzle caramel or a fruit compote or jam on top – the possibilities are endless! Get creative!

If you make these or any of my recipes, be sure to tag @ButterAddictGonePaleo and #butteraddictgonepaleo on Instagram and Facebook! I love to see all of your guys’ remakes of recipes!


Print Recipe


Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars {Dairy, Gluten, & Grain Free/Vegan}

Course Dessert

Cook Time 15 minutes
Passive Time 1-2 hours

Servings
bars


Ingredients
Pecan Crust

"Cheesecake" filling

Pumpkin swirl

Course Dessert

Cook Time 15 minutes
Passive Time 1-2 hours

Servings
bars


Ingredients
Pecan Crust

"Cheesecake" filling

Pumpkin swirl


Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

  2. In a small bowl, combine the ground flax and water, and set aside for 3-5 minutes. This creates an egg substitute.

  3. In a food processor, finely chop pecans.

  4. In a mixing bowl, combine pecans, almond flour, sugar, arrowroot, salt, and baking soda.

  5. To the flax egg, mix in oil, vinegar, and vanilla.

  6. Add wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir to combine.

  7. Pour batter into a 8X8 baking pan and bake for 13-15 minutes until the crust is cooked through.

  8. While the crust is baking, in a food processor or high-powder blender, combine the "cheesecake" filling ingredients until smooth. Set aside.

  9. In a small bowl, combine the pumpkin swirl ingredients.

  10. Once the crust has baked and cooled, pour "cheesecake" filling onto crust.

  11. Pour spoonfuls of pumpkin swirl onto the "cheesecake" filling and swirl as desired.

  12. Freeze for 1-2 hours or refrigerate overnight until set up.

  13. DEVOUR! 🙂

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars {Vegan, Gluten/Grain Free}

August 23, 2018

Breakfast…dessert…snack…you name it, these bars are it. They’re so good, but so addicting! Beware – they’re probably going to disappear FAST!

These bars are packed with protein, healthy fats, and a sugar level that you can control completely! That’s the best part about making desserts and snacks at home, you CONTROL things like sugar. So often, foods (snacks, in particular) have an unnecessary added amount of sugar.

NO THANKS!

These bars are a snack or treat that you can feel good about eating or feeding your kiddos! You won’t miss any of those processed sugars, grains, or dairy – promise!

Print Recipe
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Cook Time 15 minutes
Passive Time 1-2 hours of cooling
Servings
bars
Ingredients
Cheesecake filling
Strawberry filling
Cook Time 15 minutes
Passive Time 1-2 hours of cooling
Servings
bars
Ingredients
Cheesecake filling
Strawberry filling
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients for sugar cookie crust.
  3. Press dough into a baking dish or bread pan. You can use whatever kind of pan you have on hand though! I like to use the loaf pan. This way, I have enough crust to press it up against the sides to create almost a "U" shape in the pan.
  4. Bake crust for 13-15 minutes until slightly golden on top.
  5. For the cheesecake filling, blend all of the ingredients in a high powdered blender or food processor until completely smooth.
  6. Once the crust has cooked and cooled, add the cheesecake filling to the middle section.
  7. Spread strawberry jam across the middle of the bars and swirl around the cheesecake filling, if desired.
  8. Chill for 1-2 hours until firm.
  9. Slice and devour!
Recipe Notes

*If you can't find canned coconut CREAM, you can use a can of coconut milk. Simply scrape the thick, white cream off the top of the opened can of coconut milk. Save the liquid for smoothies!

** recipe for 3-ingredient Strawberry Jam

Easy Vegan Drop Biscuits {Gluten & Grain Free}

August 14, 2018

Recently, my husband discovered he was intolerant to eggs. Let me tell ya, we eat A LOT of eggs and that is coming to an end for awhile. This discovery came to our attention through testing that we had done through Balanced Health. We already suspected that he was intolerant to dairy, at least cow’s milk, but eggs just weren’t on our minds! It’s so nice to have some answers and work to eliminate some of his health issues. There were quite a few other things that we discovered through this testing that we never would have guessed! We’re excited to put some things into play and see what comes out of it. I’ll be sharing more details about our experience in a future post.

Balanced Health


Due to this newly discovered egg intolerance, I’m learning to adapt many of recipes to fit into his diet. Most of the baked goods that I make require eggs. There will be lots of experimenting in the near future.

The other night, he requested biscuits and sausage gravy…so I got to work! Surprisingly, he loved the first batch that I made of these and said, “Don’t change a thing!”

These biscuits are moist and perfectly crumbly, but still hold up well like your typical biscuits. They’re made from a mixture of flours and chia seeds, instead of eggs. If you can tolerate eggs, and are not restricted to a vegan diet, you could substitute an egg for the chia seeds and water in this recipe.

These Easy Vegan Drop Biscuits are super simple to make, hence the name, and could pair well with any meal. However, my favorite way to eat biscuits will always be to have them covered in sausage gravy. ALWAYS. Check out my recipe for Sausage Peppered Gravy for a dairy free, paleo take on the classic!



If you’re are interested in getting testing done like we did, you can do so through the link below. We purchased the Full Scan.

https://www.creatingbalancedhealth.com/product/fullscan/?ref=57

Balanced Health

You can receive $20 off any scan by entering “GonePaleo” at checkout. I would highly recommend doing it, if you’re curious at all about how your body is functioning despite having digestion problems or not. Our diet affects so many things in our body, from mood to your skin. If you are having ANY health issues, this test could give you answers or make a great starting point in aiding your health!

The full scan runs your saliva and hair samples (that you send via mail) against 600 factors. It lets you know how different parts of your body are functioning, i.e. your thyroids, liver, blood, digestion, nervous/respiratory system, etc. Such an interesting thing to learn! I will be getting myself tested in the future, as well!

Balanced Health

 

Print Recipe
Easy Vegan Drop Biscuits {Gluten & Grain Free}
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings
biscuits
Ingredients
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings
biscuits
Ingredients
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. In a small bowl, mix chia seeds and 1/4 cup of the water and let rest for 3-4 minutes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine remaining dry ingredients - almond and coconut flour, arrowroot, salt, and baking powder.
  4. Once the chia mixture has thickened and turned into a coagulated, gel-like mixture, add vinegar, avocado oil, and remaining 1/2 cup of water and whisk to combine.
  5. Add the wet ingredients to your mixing bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir just enough to combine.
  6. Onto a greased or lined baking sheet, drop approximately 1/3 cup-sized portions evenly onto the sheet.
  7. Bake for 15-17 minutes until slightly golden and cooked through the center.

Maple Bacon Protein Balls {Dairy, Gluten, & Grain Free}

July 25, 2018

When it comes to bacon, I just can’t help myself. I’m guilty of trying to find an excuse to use it in any recipe.

Protein balls are NO exception. I make a batch of protein balls every week for quick, convenient snacks, and these might have to be a regular occurrence. THEY ARE SO GOOD!

They taste like you just ate the last bite of pancakes and bacon off your plate. YES, PLEASE.

They’re crunchy from the crispy bacon and sweet from the maple syrup and maple sugar.

Protein balls are a great way to snack and get in some healthy fats and protein during the day. Snacks, like these, are the kind that keeps you feeling satisfied longer, along with being fairly guilt-free. Don’t go and eat the whole batch, though. I wouldn’t classify that as being a smart choice!

Not a fan of the salty and sweet combo? Check out a few of my other protein ball recipes below!

Cinnamon Roll Protein Balls

Strawberry Shortcake Protein Balls

Birthday Cake Protein Balls

Cherry Cobbler Protein Balls

Double Chocolate Brownie Balls


Print Recipe
Maple Bacon Protein Balls {Dairy, Gluten, & Grain Free}
Prep Time 5 minutes
Passive Time 20+ minutes of cooling/freezing
Servings
balls
Ingredients
Prep Time 5 minutes
Passive Time 20+ minutes of cooling/freezing
Servings
balls
Ingredients
Instructions
  1. In a high-powdered blender or food processor, blend cashews and coconut oil until fairly smooth.
  2. Add in bacon slices to the blender and blend for 10-15 seconds until the bacon is broken up into very little pieces and equally dispersed throughout the cashew butter.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cashew butter with the remaining ingredients.
  4. Scoop out tablespoon sized balls onto a tray until all of the mixture is used. Melon baller scoops work great for this step!
  5. Place in the freezer for 20 minutes or refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
  6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Recipe Notes

*Maple sugar can be hard to find, but it adds extra maple flavor as the pure syrup can sometimes be lacking. If you cannot find maple sugar you can substitute coconut sugar.

Cinnamon Roll Protein Balls {Dairy, Gluten, & Grain Free}

July 13, 2018

These creamy little bits have become a new favorite of mine.

Not only are they delicious, they’re filled with healthy fats and protein, but anti-inflammatory properties, as well!

Cinnamon is one of my favorite flavors and it helps to make things more “dessert-like” when I’m trying to keep the sugar in a recipe low.

These balls are sweetened with only FOUR medjool dates, yet you’ll feel like you’re biting into a creamy, sugary cinnamon roll bite! Except this little bite will be good for you!

Make a batch of these Cinnamon Roll Protein Balls to keep on hand for those sugar cravings that are always bound to hit you throughout the week! They’re delicious and so satisfying!


Print Recipe
Cinnamon Roll Protein Balls {Dairy, Gluten, & Grain Free}
Prep Time 10 minutes
Passive Time 20+ minutes - cooling
Servings
balls
Ingredients
Prep Time 10 minutes
Passive Time 20+ minutes - cooling
Servings
balls
Ingredients
Instructions
  1. In a food processor, blend cashews, coconut butter, and dates until fairly smooth. You can leave it a little chunky, depending on preference.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, add cashew mixture and remaining ingredients. Stir to combine.
  3. If the mixture is too wet, you can add a couple teaspoons of almond flour, as needed. If it's too dry, you can add another teaspoon of melted coconut butter.
  4. Onto a lined baking sheet or plate, scoop out tablespoon sized balls. I use a melon baller scoop for this step - it makes it so easy and fast!
  5. Freeze for 20 minutes or refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
  6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator/freezer.

Fried Green Tomatoes {Grain & Gluten Free}

July 12, 2018

If you are reading this title and don’t have a clue as to what these are… pay attention and make these!

Green tomatoes are simply unripened tomatoes. They’re much firmer and not as juicy as the red ones, which make them perfect for frying. Any variety will work for this recipe, I had Early Girl on hand, thanks to my mom’s garden this year.

Personally, I’m not even the biggest fan of fresh tomatoes, but the green ones, when battered and fried, I am DEFINITELY a fan! The taste of these Fried Green Tomatoes are fresh and slightly acidic… and the crunch on the outside is so, so good!

With a father, being born and raised in North Carolina, and a mother being able to cook just about anything, regardless of where she was from, these were a staple for dinnertime during the summer months. However, they never made it to the actual dinner table. My poor mom couldn’t fry them fast enough, as we all stood around the stove and ate them as soon as they finished frying…only allowing a few seconds to let them cool. Those seconds seemed like forever!

Do yourself a favor, and go pick some of those green tomatoes off your plants and fry them up!

Sometimes, I add a bit of parmesan cheese to the breading, but it’s not necessary. If you tolerate dairy, it adds a bit more flavor and crunch, but you can definitely do without it and they still turn out delicious!

Next time you’re looking for a new side dish for those summer dinners, make a batch (or 3!) of these Fried Green Tomatoes, you won’t be disappointed, and you’ll also be addicted. Whip up a batch of Southwest Ranch Dressing to dip them in for even more flavor – it’s a personal favorite of mine!

Print Recipe
Fried Green Tomatoes {Grain & Gluten Free}
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings
Ingredients
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings
Ingredients
Instructions
  1. Slice tomatoes thin - 1/8" inch or less, depending on preference. The thinner they are, the quicker they will cook.
  2. In a small bowl, beat the egg.
  3. In a large bowl or shallow plate, combine almond flour, Italian seasoning, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. If you're choosing to add the cheese, add the parmesan now, otherwise, simply omit it from the recipe.
  4. In a separate bowl or shallow plate, add the arrowroot flour.
  5. Add oil to a skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Allow it to heat for 5 minutes or so.
  6. While the oil is heating up, dredge the tomato slices in the arrowroot, being sure to cover both sides and edges.
  7. After the arrowroot flour, dip the slices in the egg - coating both sides.
  8. After the egg, dip the slices in the almond flour mixture - being sure to evenly coat both sides and the edges.
  9. Place slices in the hot oil. You don't want to overcrowd the pan. I usually cook 7-8 slices at a time, depending on the size of pan. They should sizzle and start to fry immediately. If not, wait, and heat the oil further.
  10. Cook over medium heat for 1 minute and 45 seconds on the first side or until golden brown and crispy.
  11. Flip and cook for another 60-75 seconds or until the second side is golden brown, as well.
  12. Transfer slices to a cooking rack or plate lined with a paper towel to drain the excess oil off.
  13. Repeat steps 6-12 until all of the slices are cooked.
  14. If you want to keep the slices warm (meaning there are not people around to eat them immediately out of the pan!), place them in a 250 degree oven on a baking sheet lined with a rack to keep them warm and crispy until served.