Description
These Cinnamon Roll Protein Bites are a delicious, no-bake snack that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon roll with a healthy protein boost. Made with oats, vanilla protein powder, and warm spices, these bites are perfect for a quick breakfast, post-workout snack, or anytime treat. They require minimal preparation, no baking, and are easy to customize with cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar coatings.
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
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
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
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of spices.
- 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 seems too dry, add milk one tablespoon at a time. If too wet, add oats or protein powder one tablespoon at a time to reach the right consistency.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up and flavors to meld. For best results, refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Prepare Workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Have a small bowl of water nearby to dampen your hands to prevent sticking.
- Scoop and Roll: Using a tablespoon measure, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll each portion between your palms to form smooth, round balls. Place each rolled bite on the prepared baking sheet.
- Optional Coating (Cinnamon Sugar): In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Roll each protein bite in this cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
- Optional Coating (Powdered Sugar): Alternatively, place the rolled bites in a bowl and gently toss them with powdered sugar for a festive snowy look.
- Refrigerate the Bites: Place the baking sheet with the protein bites in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the bites to firm up completely.
- Store in an Airtight Container: Transfer the protein bites to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the bites in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy these protein bites straight from the refrigerator as a healthy snack, a pre or post-workout energy boost, or a guilt-free dessert.
Notes
- Adjust milk quantity carefully to achieve the right mixture consistency.
- The bites can be customized with cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar coatings for variety.
- Use any vanilla protein powder, either whey or plant-based, according to your dietary preference.
- Store leftovers in the fridge or freezer to maintain freshness.
- These bites are naturally gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats and protein powder.
