Introduction

Cinnamon Roll Protein Bites are a delicious and nutritious snack that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg with a boost of protein. These bite-sized treats are easy to make and perfect for a quick energy boost or a post-workout bite.

A close-up image shows a white plate filled with eight round, brown cinnamon balls. Each ball is covered in a light cream-colored glaze, with thicker cream lines drizzled over the top in a zigzag pattern. The brown balls have a slightly grainy texture with visible cinnamon specks. The scene is set on a smooth white marbled surface, giving a clean and simple look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup Rolled Oats, blended into powder (50g)
1 cup Almond Flour (96g)
2 tbsp Ground Flaxseed (14g)
1/4 cup Vanilla Protein Powder (30g)
1/4 cup Almond Butter (60g)
2 tbsp Maple Syrup (30ml)
1 tsp Cinnamon (5g)
1/4 tsp Nutmeg (1g)
1/4 cup Unsweetened Almond Milk (60ml)
2 tbsp Powdered Sugar (16g)
1 tbsp Cinnamon (5g)
2 tbsp Cream Cheese or Dairy-free Alternative (30g)
3 tbsp Powdered Sugar (24g)
1-2 tsp Unsweetened Almond Milk (5-10ml)

Instructions

Step 1: Blend the rolled oats into a fine powder. In a large bowl, combine the powdered oats, almond flour, ground flaxseed, vanilla protein powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly.
Step 2: Add almond butter and maple syrup to the dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Step 3: Gradually add almond milk, one tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition until a sticky but firm dough forms. Adjust with more almond flour or almond milk if necessary to reach the right consistency.
Step 4: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. In a separate small bowl, mix powdered sugar and cinnamon for the coating. Roll each bite in this cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat evenly.
Step 5: Place the coated bites on parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 6: To prepare the glaze, whisk together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and almond milk (starting with 1 teaspoon and adding more to achieve desired consistency) until smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Drizzle the glaze over the chilled bites. Serve immediately or store in the fridge until ready to enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, substitute almond flour with oat flour and almond butter with sunflower seed butter.
Adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the maple syrup to your taste.
Try adding a pinch of ground ginger for an extra warming spice note.
Use dairy-free cream cheese to keep the bites vegan and dairy-free.
Store bites in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.

Storage

Store the cinnamon roll protein bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To enjoy, simply take them out and serve chilled or let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes if you prefer a softer texture. These bites can also be frozen for up to one month; thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving.

How to Serve

A white plate holds about a dozen small round balls that look soft and fluffy. Each ball has two visible layers: the base is light brown, dusted with a darker cinnamon powder giving a grainy texture, and on top is an uneven drizzle of creamy white icing in thick lines crossing each ball vertically and horizontally. The balls are packed closely together, filling the plate on a white marbled surface in soft light. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut butter?

Yes, peanut butter or cashew butter can be used instead of almond butter. Keep in mind the flavor will vary slightly depending on the nut butter chosen.

Are these bites suitable for a vegan diet?

They can be vegan if you use a plant-based protein powder, dairy-free cream cheese, and ensure any other ingredients like maple syrup are vegan-friendly.