These chickpea cookie dough balls are a no bake, high protein (thanks chickpeas!), healthy snack that’s perfect for on the go. It’s also a good source of iron as every one of the ingredients is a great plant based source!

We both love these, and they are so quick and easy to make as they only require 4 ingredients and the food processor to mix. You can roll them in coconut or almond flour too if you like, however we prefer the raw cookie dough look and the choc chip effect from the chopped dates.

These are for over 12 months due to them containing dates (although you can give from 6 months if you’re ok with the small sugar content in them, but it’s all up to you). Dates are such a healthy food with so many vitamins and minerals, however it’s recommended to wait until over 12 months.

Note: as these chickpea cookie dough balls are for toddlers, the recipe is 1/4 cup of dates, feel free to double for older kids or adults.

Benefits of chickpeas for babies

Chickpeas are a great source of protein, which is important for building and repairing tissues in the body. They also contain a good amount of iron, which is essential for healthy blood cell production. And let’s not forget about the fibre – chickpeas are a great source of both soluble and insoluble fibre, which is important for digestive health.

The versatility of chickpeas is definitely one of their best features! They can be mashed and added to purees, soups, or even used as a base for dips like hummus or pasta sauce. And did you know that chickpeas can also be used in sweet recipes? They can be blended into smoothies, used as a base for bliss balls like we have done here, or added to baked goods for a boost of protein and fibre. However, it’s important to keep in mind that whole chickpeas can be a choking hazard for babies, so it’s best to puree or mash them before serving. With so many options, it’s easy to find a way to incorporate chickpeas into your baby’s diet.

Make sure to always consult with a paediatrician before introducing new foods to your baby’s diet, and start with a small amount to monitor for any potential allergic reactions.