These Apple Pie Protein Bites are a tasty treat that gives you a boost of energy! Made with wholesome oats, apples, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, they’re like bite-sized apple pies.
I love making these for a quick snack during busy days. Plus, they’re great to share or enjoy after a workout. Who knew staying healthy could be so delicious? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These serve as the base for your bites, giving them texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats!
Vanilla Protein Powder: This adds protein while enhancing the flavor. If you’re vegan, opt for a plant-based protein powder like pea or hemp protein.
Dried Apples: They give a natural sweetness and apple flavor. If you don’t have dried apples, you can also use raisins or chopped fresh apples. Just be mindful that fresh apples may change the consistency a bit.
Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These spices create that warm, cozy apple pie flavor. If you want to switch things up, you can add pumpkin spice seasoning for a different twist!
Nut Butter: I prefer almond butter, but peanut butter or cashew butter works just as well. For nut allergies, tahini or sunbutter are great alternatives.
How Do You Make Sure the Bites Hold Together?
Getting the right texture so your bites don’t crumble can be a bit tricky. Here are steps to ensure they come out perfectly:
- Mix the dry ingredients really well before adding the wet ones. This blends all the flavors.
- When combining the wet and dry, make sure it’s sticky. If it feels too dry, add a splash of almond milk or a bit more nut butter.
- Shape the mixture into balls using your hands. They should feel compact; if not, try adding tiny amounts of honey to help them stick.
- Chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up nicely.
Following these tips will ensure your Apple Pie Protein Bites are delicious and hold their shape well!
How to Make Apple Pie Protein Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 cup dried apples, finely chopped or small apple chunks
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseed or chia seeds (optional, for extra fiber)
- 1/2 cup natural almond butter or peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and then about 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. Overall, you’ll be enjoying these delicious protein bites in just under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground flaxseed (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt. Make sure everything is evenly combined so the flavors blend well.
2. Add the Apples:
Next, fold in the chopped dried apples into your dry mixture. This adds the sweet apple flavor to each bite. Stir gently to ensure the apples are evenly distributed.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate small bowl, combine the almond or peanut butter with honey (or maple syrup) and vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is what will hold your bites together!
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly until everything is well combined. The mixture should be sticky but able to hold together. If it feels too dry, try adding a little more honey or nut butter, or splash in some almond milk to help it stick.
5. Shape the Bites:
Using your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into small bites, about 1 inch in diameter. Don’t worry about making them perfect; a little rustic charm is always nice!
6. Chill the Bites:
Place the rolled bites on a baking sheet or a plate lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This step is important as it helps them hold their shape when you eat them.
7. Store Your Treats:
Once they are set, you can enjoy your Apple Pie Protein Bites! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, feel free to freeze them!
Enjoy these delicious, nutritious bites that capture the warm flavors of apple pie with a protein-packed twist! Perfect for a quick snack or post-workout treat! 🍏🥧
Can I Use Fresh Apples Instead of Dried Apples?
Yes, you can use fresh apples, but be sure to finely chop them. However, keep in mind that fresh apples will add moisture to the mixture, which may affect the bites’ consistency. You may want to reduce the amount of nut butter slightly to balance things out.
How Long Do These Protein Bites Last in the Fridge?
Your Apple Pie Protein Bites will stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them, and they’ll last for about 2-3 months!
Can I Modify the Sweetness Level of This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet bite, feel free to reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup. You can always adjust it to taste – just remember that less sweetness might impact the binding consistency, so keep an eye on the mixture!
What Should I Do If the Mixture Is Too Dry?
If you find that the mixture isn’t sticking together well, you can add a little more honey or nut butter to moisten it. Alternatively, adding a splash of almond milk can help achieve the right consistency. Make sure it’s sticky enough to form into balls!