These Apple Pie Protein Bites are a tasty and healthy treat! Loaded with real apple pieces and warm spices, they taste just like your favorite pie in a bite-sized form.
Making these is super easy—a mix, roll, and chill! They’re perfect for a quick snack or post-workout boost. Plus, they won’t judge if you sneak one (or three) while watching TV! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Use rolled oats for a chewy texture. If you need a gluten-free option, just check that your oats are certified gluten-free. Quick oats can also work, but they yield softer bites.
Vanilla Protein Powder: I used vanilla flavor here for that classic pie taste. If you’re not a fan of vanilla, chocolate protein powder will add a twist. You can also skip it for a total of 1 cup oats instead!
Dried Apples: Dried apples bring that sweet flavor. If unavailable, you could use fresh apples (just chop and soften them) or even other dried fruits like apricots for a different taste.
Nut Butters: I love almond butter for its taste, but peanut butter is a fine substitute if you prefer it or have an allergy to nuts. Sunflower seed butter is a great nut-free alternative!
Sweeteners: Honey adds a lovely sweetness, but if you’re vegan, maple syrup will work just as well. Agave syrup is another alternative you can try.
How Do I Make Sure My Mixture Sticks Together?
Getting the right consistency is key! Start by combining all your dry ingredients first, then add the wet ingredients slowly. If your mixture feels dry and crumbly, here’s what you can do:
- Add water or milk a tablespoon at a time as you mix until it holds together.
- Make sure you really combine the almond butter and sweeteners well to ensure they coat the oats nicely.
Using wet hands to form the balls can help too! This keeps the mixture from sticking to your hands and makes rolling easier. Happy snacking!
Apple Pie Protein Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (about 1/4 cup)
- 1/2 cup dried apples, finely chopped or small apple pieces (softened if needed)
- 1/4 cup almond flour or finely ground almonds
- 1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup raisins or chopped dates
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional)
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp water or milk of choice (if needed, to adjust consistency)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes for chilling in the fridge. You’ll have a nutritious, tasty snack ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dried Apples:
Start by chopping the dried apples finely. If they seem a bit too dry, soak them in warm water for around 5 minutes, then drain well. This softens them up for better mixing.
2. Mix Your Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, throw in the rolled oats, protein powder, almond flour, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, optional ginger, and sea salt. Stir everything together until it’s well combined to ensure even flavor distribution.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Next, add the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, raisins (or chopped dates), and those chopped dried apples to the bowl. Mix it all together until everything is well blended. You want a sticky mixture that holds together but is not too wet.
4. Adjust the Consistency (if needed):
If your mixture feels too dry and crumbly, don’t worry! Just add water or milk a tablespoon at a time until it sticks together nicely. Mixing well at this stage is key to achieving good consistency.
5. Roll Into Bites:
Now it’s time to shape your bites! Use your hands to roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. It can get a bit sticky; wetting your hands slightly can help with rolling.
6. Chill the Bites:
Place the protein bites on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper and put them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to grab and go!
7. Storage:
Once chilled, transfer the bites to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to a week. Enjoy them as a healthy snack or a quick source of energy after your workout!
These Apple Pie Protein Bites not only taste fantastic but are also a great way to enjoy a healthy treat without the fuss. Grab one when you need a pick-me-up and enjoy the flavors of apple pie guilt-free!
Can I Use Fresh Apples Instead of Dried Apples?
Yes, you can use fresh apples! Just chop them into small pieces and consider lightly cooking or steaming them to soften for better flavor integration. Be sure to adjust the quantity based on how moist they are—about 1/2 cup should do!
How Do I Make These Vegan-Friendly?
To make these protein bites vegan, simply substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup. Use a plant-based protein powder to keep the entire recipe vegan-friendly!
Can I Freeze Apple Pie Protein Bites?
Absolutely! You can freeze these protein bites. Just place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They should last for up to 3 months in the freezer—simply thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!
What’s the Best Way to Variate the Flavor?
If you’re looking to switch things up, consider adding other spices like cardamom or allspice for a different flavor profile. You can also mix in some chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a scoop of cocoa powder for a tasty twist!
