Description
These Cinnamon Roll Protein Bites are the perfect no-bake snack combining the comforting flavors of cinnamon roll with the protein-packed goodness of oats and vanilla protein powder. Quick to prepare and easy to customize with your choice of sweeteners and coatings, these bites make for an ideal pre- or post-workout treat or a healthy dessert option.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 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 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Coating Options
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt to evenly distribute the spices and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in 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 until well combined into a slightly sticky mixture. If the mixture is too dry, gradually add milk one tablespoon at a time. If it is too wet, add additional oats or protein powder in one tablespoon increments to achieve the right consistency for rolling.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up and flavors to meld, though chilling for 1 hour is preferable for best results.
- Prepare Workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Have a small bowl of water nearby to lightly wet your hands, which will prevent sticking when rolling the bites.
- Scoop and Roll: Use a tablespoon to scoop portions of the chilled mixture. Roll each portion between your palms into a smooth, round ball. Place each completed protein bite onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Optional Coating (Cinnamon Sugar): Mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Roll each protein bite in the cinnamon sugar mixture until they are evenly coated for an extra burst of cinnamon flavor.
- Optional Coating (Powdered Sugar): Alternatively, place the protein bites into a bowl and gently toss them with powdered sugar to give a snowy, festive appearance.
- Refrigerate the Bites: Return the baking sheet with protein bites to the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow them to firm up and hold their shape.
- Store in an Airtight Container: Transfer the protein bites to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage. For freezing, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen bites stay fresh up to two months.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy these protein bites straight from the refrigerator as a snack, a pre- or post-workout boost, or a healthy dessert alternative.
Notes
- If you prefer a sweeter bite, increase the honey or maple syrup up to 3 tablespoons.
- You can substitute rolled oats with gluten-free oats if you need a gluten-free version.
- For vegan options, use plant-based protein powder and non-dairy milk.
- Adjust consistency with milk or dry ingredients as needed for easy rolling.
- The bites keep well in the refrigerator for up to a week and in the freezer for up to two months.
- These are no-bake and require chilling only, making them quick and convenient.
- Feel free to add mix-ins such as chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture.
