Cinnamon Apple Raisin Protein Balls are a great way to have something sweet and satisfying ready when the afternoon snack urge hits.
They’re chewy, packed with apple cinnamon flavor, and have little bits of dried fruit in every bite. If you’re tired of grabbing the same snack bars every day, these are a fun change.
This easy no-bake protein balls recipe uses rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, almond butter, and a few pantry staples. The combination tastes a little like oatmeal raisin cookies with a hint of apple.
They’re sweet enough to feel like a treat without being overly sugary.
A food processor makes quick work of grinding some of the oats, which helps the mixture hold together. After that, you only need a mixing bowl and a little refrigerator time.
Each batch makes 18 protein balls, so you can prepare several days of snacks at once. Keep them chilled and grab one whenever you need a quick bite.
They’re especially great for packing lunches, keeping at work, or having something ready after a busy afternoon.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Apple Raisin Protein Balls Recipe
No Baking Required
You don’t need to turn on the oven or spend time watching a timer. Just mix, roll, and chill. It’s an easy way to make homemade snacks without much effort.
A Nice Change From Chocolate Protein Balls
Chocolate and peanut butter get plenty of attention, but apple cinnamon deserves a turn. The dried apples and raisins give these a naturally fruity sweetness that’s a little different from the usual protein snacks.
Easy to Portion
With 18 individual servings, you can portion your snacks ahead of time. They’re small enough for a quick bite, and you can pack a couple when you want something more substantial.
Uses Common Pantry Ingredients
Most of the ingredients are easy to keep on hand. If you regularly make oatmeal or protein shakes, you may already have several of them in your kitchen.
Soft, Chewy Texture
The ground oats help hold everything together, and the whole oats add a little bite. You also get chewy pieces of apple and raisins throughout.
Ingredient Substitutions
Old Fashioned Rolled Oats
Quick oats can work instead, although the protein balls may have a softer texture. Avoid steel-cut oats because they’re too firm for this no-bake recipe.
Vanilla Protein Powder
Unflavored protein powder works if you prefer less sweetness. You may need a little extra honey or cinnamon to adjust the flavor.
Unsweetened Dried Apple Pieces
Finely chopped dried pears make a good substitute. Choose soft dried fruit rather than crunchy freeze-dried pieces for a similar texture.
Raisins
Dried cranberries or chopped dried dates work great here. Choose unsweetened cranberries if you want to keep the sweetness closer to the original recipe.
Creamy Natural Almond Butter
Creamy peanut butter or cashew butter can replace the almond butter. Peanut butter will give the protein balls a more noticeable nutty flavor.
Unsweetened Applesauce
Mashed ripe banana can work in the same amount. It will change the flavor slightly and add more banana sweetness.
Honey
Pure maple syrup is an easy substitute. The mixture may be a little softer, so additional chilling time could help.
Ground Cinnamon
Apple pie spice works great if you want a slightly different spice flavor. Use the same amount.
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Cinnamon Apple Raisin Protein Balls
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup old fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup vanilla protein powder
- ½ cup unsweetened dried apple pieces finely chopped
- ⅓ cup raisins
- ½ cup creamy natural almond butter
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Place ½ cup rolled oats in a food processor and pulse until they resemble coarse flour.
- Transfer the ground oats to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the remaining ½ cup rolled oats, protein powder, dried apple pieces, raisins, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Add the almond butter, applesauce, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir until a thick, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Refrigerate the mixture for 10 minutes to make it easier to roll.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form a ball.
- Place the ball on the prepared baking sheet and repeat with the remaining mixture to make 18 balls.
- Refrigerate for 20 minutes or until firm.
Notes
Tips and Tricks
Protein Powder – Different protein powders absorb moisture differently. If the mixture seems too dry to roll, add a little extra applesauce. If it’s too sticky, stir in a small amount of rolled oats. Natural Almond Butter – Stir the almond butter thoroughly before measuring. The oil can separate in the jar, leaving the bottom too thick. Chop the Apples Small – Large pieces of dried apple can make the balls difficult to roll. Smaller pieces help everything stay together. Even Portions – A small cookie scoop makes it easier to keep the protein balls close to the same size.Storing
Refrigerator – Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Freezer – Freeze the protein balls in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thawing – Thaw frozen protein balls in the refrigerator before serving.Nutrition
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