Name: Apple Pie Protein Balls Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats; ½ cup vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based); ½ cup dried apples, finely chopped; ¼ cup chopped walnuts; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ¼ tsp ground nutmeg; Pinch of salt; ¼ cup almond butter; 2 tbsp maple syrup; 1–2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce (as needed for texture)

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Introduction

Apple Pie Protein Balls are a delicious, no-bake snack that captures the comforting flavors of apple pie in a convenient bite-sized treat. Packed with oats, protein, and healthy fats, they make a perfect energizing snack for any time of day.

A close-up view of several round energy balls stacked inside a brown textured bowl, each ball covered in a layer of light beige oatmeal flakes with a dusting of cinnamon powder on top, showing a slightly rough texture. In the background, a blurred white bowl contains a swirl of creamy, light brown peanut butter, resting on a white marbled surface with faint golden-yellow streaks. At the bottom right, a white plate holds one of the oatmeal balls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
½ cup vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
½ cup dried apples, finely chopped
¼ cup chopped walnuts
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt
¼ cup almond butter
2 tbsp maple syrup
1–2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce (as needed for texture)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, stir together oats, protein powder, chopped dried apples, chopped walnuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Step 2: Add almond butter, maple syrup, and 1 tablespoon of applesauce to the dry mixture. Stir well with a spatula until combined. If the mixture feels too dry, add another tablespoon of applesauce.
Step 3: Use your hands or a cookie scoop to roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray or plate.
Step 4: You can eat the protein balls right away, but they taste best after chilling in the fridge for 15–30 minutes.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, substitute almond butter and walnuts with sunflower seed butter and pumpkin seeds.
Add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
Use peanut butter instead of almond butter for a different nutty taste.
To make them vegan, choose a plant-based protein powder and ensure your maple syrup is pure.

Storage

Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to one month—just thaw in the fridge before eating. Chilling helps them hold their shape and improves the texture.

How to Serve

The image shows several round cookie dough balls placed closely together in a metal baking tray on a white marbled surface. Each dough ball is thick and chunky, with a soft brown base layer mixed with visible chunks of light yellow apple pieces embedded throughout. Rolled oats are sprinkled on top and slightly pressed into the dough, adding a textural contrast with their flaky, off-white color. The dough appears moist and dense, with a slightly rough texture. The baking tray is simple and metallic, contrasting with the natural tones of the dough balls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh apples instead of dried apples?

Fresh apples contain more moisture and may make the mixture too wet to hold together well. It’s best to use dried apples or finely chop and dehydrate fresh apples before using.

What if I don’t have applesauce on hand?

Applesauce adds moisture and sweetness, but you can substitute it with mashed banana or a small amount of water to help bind the ingredients.