Apple Pie Protein Bites are a fun and tasty snack that brings the flavors of fall right to your day! Made with oats, apples, and a hint of cinnamon, they are both healthy and delicious.
These bites are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or post-workout treat. I love popping a few in my bag for a sweet snack that doesn’t feel like a cheat! You’ll want to share, but good luck with that! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are great for providing texture and structure. If you need a gluten-free option, go for certified gluten-free oats. I personally like using quick oats when I’m in a pinch, as they blend smoothly!
Vanilla Protein Powder: This gives the bites a protein boost. If you prefer, you can use unflavored protein powder or even plant-based powder. Choose a brand you enjoy the taste of; it makes a difference!
Almond Butter: This adds healthy fats and creamy texture. If you’re allergic to nuts, sunflower seed butter or tahini works well too. I often switch up nut butters for variety and flavor!
Applesauce: Unsweetened applesauce keeps these bites moist and enhances the apple flavor. If you’re out, mashed banana is a great alternative, as it also adds natural sweetness.
Dried Apples: Chopped dried apples provide chewiness and sweetness. You can substitute them with raisins or cranberries if preferred. Fresh apple is great, but be sure to remove excess moisture!
How Do You Get the Right Texture for Protein Bites?
The key to the perfect texture in protein bites is balancing wet and dry ingredients. Here’s how to ensure they come out just right:
- Start with a good base like oats and protein powder to help bind everything.
- Mix in sticky ingredients like nut butter and applesauce evenly to create a cohesive dough.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add more liquid a teaspoon at a time, or if it’s too wet, sprinkle in more oats to thicken.
- Rolling them into balls should be easy; if they’re too crumbly, that often means more moisture is needed.
By adjusting these elements, you’ll find that perfect balance for your apple pie protein bites! Enjoy your delightful snack!
How to Make Apple Pie Protein Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 cup natural almond butter (or any nut butter)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup finely chopped dried apples or finely grated fresh apple (squeeze out excess moisture)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and healthy recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and about 30 minutes to chill. In just 40 minutes, you’ll have tasty bites ready to enjoy anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add the rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Use a spoon to stir everything together well, so the spices are evenly blended throughout the oats.
2. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
Next, add the almond butter, unsweetened applesauce, maple syrup (or honey), and the vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix everything together really thoroughly with a spoon or spatula until you get a sticky dough.
3. Fold in the Apples and Nuts:
Now it’s time to add a bit of fruity flavor! Gently fold in the finely chopped dried apples (or fresh apple) and your optional chopped nuts if you’re using them. This will give your bites a delightful crunch!
4. Adjust the Consistency:
If your mixture seems too dry and crumbly, add a teaspoon of water or a little extra applesauce to moisten it. On the other hand, if it seems too wet, sprinkle in a bit more oats until you reach the perfect consistency for rolling.
5. Roll into Bites:
Using your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place each ball on a baking sheet or plate as you finish making them. You might want to wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking!
6. Chill to Firm Up:
Once all the bites are rolled, pop them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help them firm up and hold their shape nicely!
7. Store and Enjoy:
After chilling, you can enjoy your apple pie protein bites or store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to a week, or you can freeze them for longer storage. Enjoy this tasty snack whenever you need a quick energy boost!
Happy snacking!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but they might make the protein bites softer. If you’re looking for more texture, rolled oats are a better choice since they hold their shape well when mixed.
How Do I Store Leftover Apple Pie Protein Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them! Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Can I Sweeten These Protein Bites More?
Sure! If you like them sweeter, feel free to add more maple syrup or honey, just be mindful of the moisture it adds. Start with an extra teaspoon and adjust to your taste.
What Can I Use Instead of Almond Butter?
If you have a nut allergy or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute almond butter with sunbutter, cashew butter, or even tahini. Each will give the bites a unique twist!
