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Caramel Snickerdoodle Protein Balls Recipe

4.9 from 133 reviews

These Caramel Snickerdoodle Protein Balls are a delicious and nutritious snack combining the cozy flavors of cinnamon and caramel with the protein-packed punch of vanilla or caramel protein powder. Made with gluten-free oats, cashews, and creamy nut butter, they are naturally sweetened with maple syrup or honey and require no baking, making them quick and easy to prepare. Perfect for a healthy snack on the go or a post-workout energy boost.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup (7585 grams) gluten-free rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup (70 grams) dry roasted salted cashews
  • 1/2 cup (6065 grams) vanilla or caramel protein powder
  • 1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon, plus extra for coating
  • 6 tablespoons (105110 grams) creamy no-stir nut butter or sunflower seed butter
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional Coating

  • 1 tablespoon coconut or raw sugar
  • Ground cinnamon to taste
  • A little extra protein powder for coating

Instructions

  1. Pulse Dry Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, pulse the gluten-free rolled oats and dry roasted salted cashews until they reach a coarse flour-like texture, providing a sturdy base for the protein balls.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: Transfer the pulsed mixture to a large mixing bowl. Whisk in the vanilla or caramel protein powder and 1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon to evenly distribute the flavors.
  3. Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the creamy no-stir nut butter or sunflower seed butter, maple syrup or honey, and pure vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until a thick, sticky dough forms. If the mixture feels dry or crumbly, add 2 to 4 tablespoons more maple syrup to help it come together smoothly.
  4. Shape Balls: Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, scoop and roll the dough into 1 to 1½ inch diameter balls, ensuring even sizing for consistent texture and flavor.
  5. Chill: Place the shaped balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill them in the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes to firm up and hold their shape.
  6. Optional Coating: If desired, mix coconut or raw sugar, extra cinnamon, and a bit of protein powder in a bowl. Roll or shake the chilled protein balls in this coating mixture until evenly covered, adding a sweet and spiced crunch.
  7. Store: Store the finished protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze them for up to six weeks, ensuring they stay fresh and ready for whenever you need a quick, healthy snack.

Notes

  • Adjust sweetness to taste by varying the amount of maple syrup or honey.
  • For a nut-free option, use sunflower seed butter and ensure your protein powder is nut-free.
  • These protein balls are best served chilled but can be eaten at room temperature if preferred.
  • Add-ins like mini chocolate chips or dried fruit can be mixed in before shaping for extra flavor variety.
  • If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for 10 minutes before rolling for easier handling.

Keywords: Caramel Snickerdoodle Protein Balls, Protein Snack, Gluten-Free Snack, No-Bake Protein Balls, Healthy Snack, Cinnamon Protein Balls