Dessert

Apple Pie Protein Balls Recipe

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)

ByNaomi Fletcher October 19, 2025October 19, 2025

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Introduction

These Apple Pie Protein Balls are a deliciously easy snack that tastes just like dessert but is packed with nutritious ingredients. Ready in just 10 minutes with no baking needed, they’re perfect for busy days, post-workout energy, or whenever you want a healthy sweet bite.

A close-up shot of several round cookie dough balls placed in a silver baking tray. Each ball shows a light brown dough base mixed with visible pieces of small, yellow apple chunks and scattered rolled oats on the surface, adding a slightly rough texture. The dough balls are closely set in a single layer, appearing soft and moist with a mix of smooth and textured areas caused by the oats and fruit pieces. The background features a white marbled surface with some specks of brown crumbs nearby. 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 until evenly combined.
Step 2: Add almond butter, maple syrup, and 1 tablespoon of applesauce to the dry mixture. Stir well with a spatula until fully combined. If the mixture feels too dry, add the second 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 plate or tray.
Step 4: You can eat the balls right away, but they’re even better if chilled in the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes to firm up.

Tips & Variations

Chop dried apples very finely to avoid chewy chunks in the balls.
If almond butter is runny, chill it beforehand to help the balls hold their shape better.
Start with 1 tablespoon of applesauce and add more only if needed to achieve the right texture.
Try substituting peanut butter or sunflower seed butter if you don’t have almond butter.
Swap dried apples for raisins or chopped dried pears for a different fruity flavor.
Add chia seeds or flaxseeds to boost fiber content.
Use chocolate protein powder for a fun and tasty twist.

Storage

Store these protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months—just thaw for 5 to 10 minutes before eating. They make a great grab-and-go snack or addition to lunchboxes.