These Apple Pie Protein Bites are like tiny hugs in treat form! With sweet apples, oats, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, they taste just like autumn in every bite.
Honestly, I can’t get over how easy they are to make! Just mix, roll, and enjoy. They’re perfect for a snack or a little pick-me-up during the day. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These give structure and fiber. If you’re gluten-free, make sure to buy certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats can work in a pinch, though I find rolled oats add a better texture.
Vanilla Protein Powder: I recommend using a vanilla flavor to complement the apple and spices. If you don’t have protein powder, you can leave it out, but you might want to increase the oats slightly to maintain texture.
Dried Apples: They add sweetness and apple flavor. If you can’t find them, you could use raisins or chopped dates, though the apple flavor won’t be the same.
Nut Butter: I prefer almond butter for its creamy texture, but peanut butter or sunflower seed butter also work well. If nut allergies are a concern, go for sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
Sweetener: Honey gives a nice flavor, but maple syrup is a great vegan alternative. Adjust the amount based on how sweet you want your bites!
How Do I Make Sure My Protein Bites Hold Together?
Holding the mixture together can be tricky, but here’s how to get it just right:
- Mix the dry ingredients first, which helps distribute flavors evenly.
- When adding wet ingredients, start with the nut butter and sweetener, and mix well before adding any liquid.
- Gradually add water or milk, only enough to make the mixture sticky but not too wet. You want it moldable, not gooey!
After rolling them into balls, chilling them helps set everything nicely. Even if they seem a bit crumbly before chilling, the fridge time helps them firm up!
Apple Pie Protein Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (about 1/4 cup)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 1/2 cup dried apples, finely chopped or powdered apple flakes
- 1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut/seed butter)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2-3 tablespoons water or milk (dairy or plant-based), as needed for consistency
Time Needed:
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in just around 40 minutes, you can enjoy these tasty and healthy bites!
Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl. Combine rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger (if you like a bit of spice), dried apples, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until it’s well blended and looks nice and cozy!
2. Combine Wet Ingredients:
Next, it’s time to add the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Use a spoon or your hands to mix them together really well. You want everything to be nicely combined and not a crumbly mess!
3. Adjust the Consistency:
Now, slowly add the water or milk, one tablespoon at a time. Keep mixing until the mix holds together nicely. It should be sticky enough to form into balls, but not too wet. If it feels too crumbly, a little more water or milk can help!
4. Roll into Bites:
Take a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your palms. Keep repeating this with the rest of the mixture. You’ll end up with a nice batch of protein bites!
5. Chill Them Out:
Place your protein bites on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper. Pop them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help them firm up nicely!
6. Store for Later:
Once they’re ready, you can keep your delicious apple pie protein bites in an airtight container. They’ll be good in the refrigerator for up to a week, or you can freeze them for longer enjoyment!
Dig in and savor the flavors of apple pie in each bite—the perfect healthy snack!
Can I Use Fresh Apples Instead of Dried Apples?
While fresh apples can be used, they have higher moisture content which may make the bites too wet. If you prefer using fresh apples, I recommend finely chopping them and possibly reducing the amount of liquid in the recipe.
What If I Don’t Have Protein Powder?
No problem! You can skip the protein powder and add an extra 1/4 cup of rolled oats instead. This will help maintain the texture, but the protein content will be lower.
How Can I Make These Vegan?
To make these protein bites vegan, simply use maple syrup instead of honey and choose a plant-based protein powder. You can also use any nut or seed butter that fits your dietary needs!
Can I Double the Recipe?
Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and follow the same steps. These bites are great for meal prep, and they freeze well if you need extra snacks later on.
