Description
These Cinnamon Roll Protein Bites are a delicious, no-bake snack packed with protein and the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg. Easy to prepare and perfect for quick energy boosts, these bites combine rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, and natural sweeteners to create a healthy treat that tastes like a cinnamon roll without the baking. Ideal for pre- or post-workout snacks, or a guilt-free dessert option.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Coatings
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly to ensure even distribution of spices and protein.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the unsweetened applesauce, milk, honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract into the dry mixture.
- Mix Thoroughly: Stir the wet and dry ingredients together until the mixture is well combined and slightly sticky. If the mixture feels too dry, add milk a tablespoon at a time. If too wet, add more oats or protein powder gradually until the right consistency is achieved.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the mixture; chilling for an hour is preferred for best results.
- Prepare Workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Keep a small bowl of water handy to dampen your hands, which will help prevent the mixture from sticking while rolling.
- Scoop and Roll: Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms to form smooth, round balls. Place each protein bite onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Optional Coating – Cinnamon Sugar: Mix 2 tablespoons granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Roll each protein bite in this cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated for a sweet, crunchy exterior.
- Optional Coating – Powdered Sugar: Alternatively, dust the protein bites with powdered sugar by placing the rolled bites in a bowl and gently tossing them until lightly coated, giving a festive snowy appearance.
- Refrigerate the Bites: Place the baking sheet with the rolled bites in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow them to firm up before serving or storing.
- Store in an Airtight Container: Transfer the protein bites to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them. To freeze, place the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy these no-bake protein bites straight from the refrigerator as a convenient snack, a pre- or post-workout energy boost, or a healthy dessert alternative.
Notes
- You can substitute the protein powder with any whey or plant-based variety depending on dietary preference.
- If you want a vegan version, use maple syrup and non-dairy milk options.
- Adjust the sweetness to your liking by varying the amount of honey or maple syrup.
- The coconut oil helps bind the mixture; ensure it is properly melted before mixing.
- Chilling the mixture is key for easy rolling and holding the shape of the balls.
- Rolling hands dampened with water helps prevent sticking and makes shaping easier.
- These bites can be stored in the fridge or freezer, making meal prep simple and convenient.
