Cinnamon Roll Protein Energy Bites
Cinnamon Roll Protein Energy Bites are soft, chewy snack balls that deliver the nostalgic taste of a cinnamon roll — warm spices, creamy vanilla, and a hint of sweetness — in a healthy, high-protein format. Made with oats, nut butter, cinnamon, and protein powder, they’re perfect for pre-workout fuel, afternoon pick-me-ups, or a clean dessert.
Time & Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 10–25 minutes
Servings: ~14–16 bites
Difficulty: Very easy
Dietary Info: High-Protein, Gluten-Free Dairy-Free & Vegan optional
Ingredients
1 cup rolled oats (or quick oats for smoother texture)
½ cup almond butter or peanut butter (natural, unsweetened)
⅓ cup vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt
1–2 tablespoons milk of choice (as needed, for moisture)
Optional “Icing” drizzle:
2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt
½ teaspoon maple syrup
Dash of cinnamon
Instructions
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine oats, protein powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Add Wet Ingredients:
Add almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir well until evenly mixed.
Adjust Texture:
If mixture is too dry to hold together, add milk 1 teaspoon at a time until it becomes pliable but not sticky.
Roll into Bites:
Scoop out about 1 tablespoon per ball and roll between your palms to form bite-sized balls (makes ~14–16).
Chill (Optional):
Refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up, or enjoy immediately.
Add “Icing” (Optional):
Mix yogurt, syrup, and cinnamon and drizzle over the bites before serving.
Notes & Tips
Use a food processor if you prefer smoother, dough-like bites.
Nut-free version: Sub sunflower seed butter or tahini for nut-free diets.
Flavor twist: Add a few chopped pecans or raisins for a more classic cinnamon roll vibe.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Portable: Great for lunchboxes, road trips, or hiking snacks.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chocolate protein powder instead?
A: You can, but the cinnamon roll flavor may be masked. Vanilla works best for this recipe.
Q: Are these good before or after a workout?
A: Yes! They have balanced carbs, protein, and fats — ideal for energy or recovery.
Q: Can I bake these?
A: No need! These are designed to be no-bake, but you can warm them for a softer, gooier texture.
Q: Can I skip the protein powder?
A: Yes, just replace it with ¼ cup more oats or almond flour, though protein content will be lower.
Q: What if I want more sweetness?
A: Add a few more teaspoons of maple syrup or mix in a chopped date.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 110
Protein: 5g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 40mg
Calcium: 4% DV
Iron: 6% DV
Potassium: 100mg