These Apple Pie Protein Bites are a yummy treat packed with protein and flavor! Made with oats, apples, and warm spices, they’re like a bite-sized cookie that keeps you fueled.
Perfect for a snack or post-workout boost, I love to pop a few in my bag before heading out. They taste just like apple pie but without the fuss. Who can resist that? 🍏🥧
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are essential for texture and nutrition. If you have quick oats or instant oats, you can use those, but rolled oats give a better chew.
Protein Powder: A scoop of vanilla protein powder adds protein and flavor. If you’re dairy-free, choose a plant-based protein like pea or hemp protein.
Apples: I love Fuji or Gala for their sweetness and crispness. If you don’t have those, any sweet and tart apple will work. You can also use applesauce for a smoother texture!
Nut Butter: Almond butter is my favorite, but feel free to swap in peanut butter, sunflower seed butter, or cashew butter based on your preference or allergy concerns.
Sweetener: Honey gives a nice flavor, but you can use maple syrup for a vegan option or agave syrup if you prefer.
How Do You Form the Perfect Bites?
Forming the bites can be tricky, but here are some tips to get it right. The mix should feel sticky but hold together well. If it’s too crumbly, don’t hesitate to add a little water or almond milk to help bind it.
- Use your hands to squeeze and roll the mixture into balls. If you prefer, coat your hands with a bit of nut butter to prevent sticking.
- Chill the formed bites in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This will help them hold shape and improve texture.
- For a fun texture, roll the balls in shredded coconut or crushed nuts before refrigerating!
How to Make Apple Pie Protein Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup finely chopped or grated apple (preferably a sweet-tart variety like Fuji or Gala), drained of excess moisture
- 1/4 cup almond butter (or any nut butter)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans for texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
Making these Apple Pie Protein Bites is super quick! You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and mixing, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. Total time is about 45 minutes, and you have a delicious snack ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and kosher salt. Give it a good stir so everything is well mixed and ready for the wet ingredients.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Next, add in the finely chopped or grated apple, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything together until it forms a sticky dough. If you find the mixture too dry, no worries! Just add a teaspoon of water or almond milk until it holds together easily.
3. Optional Crunch:
If you’re using nuts, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans now for that extra crunch and delicious flavor!
4. Shape the Bites:
With clean hands, take a small portion of the mixture and roll it into a ball about 1 inch in diameter. Repeat this until all the mixture is shaped into bite-sized balls. It’s okay if they’re not perfect—rustic charm is part of the fun!
5. Chill Before Serving:
Place the protein bites on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper. Pop them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and enhances their flavors.
6. Enjoy and Store:
Once they’re chilled, they’re ready to eat! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to one week. Enjoy snacking on these delightful bites throughout your day!
With the flavors of apple pie and a healthy twist, these protein bites are a perfect treat for anytime you need a little boost!
Can I Use Different Types of Nut Butter?
Absolutely! While almond butter is fantastic here, feel free to use peanut butter, sunflower seed butter, or cashew butter based on your preference or dietary restrictions.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Apples?
No problem! You can substitute fresh apples with unsweetened applesauce. Use about 1/4 cup of applesauce to maintain the moisture without altering the flavor too much.
How Long do These Protein Bites Last?
These bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just make sure to keep them chilled to maintain freshness and texture!
Can I Freeze the Apple Pie Protein Bites?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just place the protein bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or zip-top bag. They will keep well for about 2-3 months. Thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!
