These Cinnamon Roll Protein Bites are a sweet, healthy treat that tastes just like your favorite breakfast pastry! Made with oats, protein powder, and a touch of cinnamon, they’re perfect for snacking.
Honestly, I can’t get enough of these little bites! They are easy to make and great for on-the-go munching. Plus, who doesn’t love a cinnamon roll in a healthier, bite-sized form? 🙌
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old fashioned rolled oats: These provide fiber and bulk to the bites. If you’re gluten-sensitive, be sure to use certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats can work too, but keep in mind they may change the texture slightly.
Vanilla protein powder: This boosts the protein content. If you’re plant-based, look for vegan protein powders. If you don’t have it, you can use more oats and add an extra scoop of nut butter.
Pitted dates: Dates add natural sweetness and stickiness. Medjool dates are the best choice, but if you need a substitute, try using dried figs or apricots. Just make sure to blend them well!
Nut butter: I love almond butter for its flavor, but any nut or seed butter like peanut or sunflower seed butter works perfectly. This will slightly change the taste, but it will still be delicious!
Icing ingredients: Greek yogurt is great for a lighter frosting. For a vegan option, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese or keep it simple with just a drizzle of maple syrup.
How Do You Make the Perfect Protein Bites?
Creating the perfect protein bites requires blending and molding the ingredients just right. Here’s how to make sure they come out great every time:
- Grind the oats: Pulse them until finely ground, which helps the bites hold together better. Avoid turning them into flour!
- Medjool dates: Make sure they’re soft. If they’re too dry, soak them in warm water for 10-15 minutes.
- Achieve the right consistency: The mixture should be sticky enough to form balls without falling apart. Use almond milk to adjust if needed, but do it a little at a time.
- Chill them: Refrigerate the bites for at least 15 to 20 minutes after forming. This helps them firm up nicely and makes them easier to eat!
If you follow these tips, you’ll be on your way to making delicious cinnamon roll protein bites that are sure to satisfy! Enjoy! 😊
Cinnamon Roll Protein Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups old fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1 cup pitted dates
- 1/4 cup almond butter (or any nut butter)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp unsweetened almond milk (or any milk)
For the icing:
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of ground cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 20 minutes to chill in the fridge. In no time, you’ll have delicious and healthy snacks ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oats:
Start by placing the rolled oats in a food processor. Pulse them until they are finely ground but make sure you don’t turn them into flour. This will help create a nice base for your protein bites!
2. Mix All Ingredients:
Add the pitted dates, almond butter, vanilla protein powder, ground cinnamon, sea salt, vanilla extract, and maple syrup (if you’d like extra sweetness) to the food processor. Pulse everything together until the mixture is sticky and well combined. If it feels too dry, add almond milk one tablespoon at a time until the mixture holds together nicely.
3. Form the Bites:
Now it’s time to roll up those bites! Take a small amount of the mixture and use your hands to roll it into 1-inch bite-sized balls. Place these bites onto a plate or a tray lined with parchment paper.
4. Make the Icing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or cream cheese), maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon until smooth. This will be your delicious drizzle!
5. Drizzle and Chill:
Now, drizzle the icing over each protein bite. For a little extra flair, sprinkle a tiny bit of cinnamon on top. Then, place the bites in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes, so they can firm up.
6. Enjoy!
Once chilled, your Cinnamon Roll Protein Bites are ready to enjoy! They make a fantastic quick breakfast, energizing post-workout snack, or a guilt-free treat anytime. Be sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Happy snacking! 🎉
Can I Use a Different Sweetener Instead of Maple Syrup?
Absolutely! You can substitute maple syrup with honey, agave nectar, or even a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Just adjust the amount based on your taste preference!
Can I Freeze These Protein Bites?
Yes, you can freeze them! Place the protein bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
What If I Don’t Have a Food Processor?
No problem! You can use a blender to combine the ingredients or chop the dates and oats by hand and mix them in a bowl. Just make sure to mash the dates well if you’re mixing by hand to ensure everything sticks together.
How Do I Know If the Mixture Is Sticky Enough?
The mixture should hold together when pressed in your hands. If it crumbles apart, it’s too dry. Add almond milk a little at a time until you achieve the right consistency, or if it’s too sticky, you can add a bit more rolled oats or protein powder to balance it out.