Applesauce Birthday Cake Protein Balls

These Applesauce Birthday Cake Protein Balls are the perfect answer, offering a burst of flavor and a boost of energy without the guilt. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into delightful, portable snacks that are ideal for busy lifestyles, post-workout fuel, or a special treat anytime.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 0

Chilling Time 20

Total Time 40

Course: Snack

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats gluten-free if needed
1/2 cup unflavored protein powder whey, casein, or plant-based
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 tablespoons almond butter or peanut butter, cashew butter
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup adjust to sweetness preference
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch salt
2 tablespoons sprinkles optional, for that festive birthday cake feel!

Equipment

Mixing bowl
Spatula
Airtight container

Method

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
1 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup unflavored protein powder, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, Pinch salt
To the dry ingredients, add the unsweetened applesauce, almond butter (or your choice of nut butter), honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce, 2 tablespoons almond butter, 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Using a spatula or a sturdy spoon, begin to mix all the ingredients together. Continue mixing until a thick, cohesive dough forms. The mixture should be slightly sticky but hold its shape when pressed.
If you're adding sprinkles for that extra birthday cake charm, gently fold them into the dough now. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the colors to bleed.
2 tablespoons sprinkles
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the dough for at least 20-30 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the oats to absorb some of the moisture and makes the dough easier to roll into balls.
Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Scoop out about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture at a time and roll it between your palms to form small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. If the dough is too sticky to handle, you can lightly dampen your hands with water or a tiny bit of oil.
Your Applesauce Birthday Cake Protein Balls are ready to be enjoyed immediately!

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Can also be frozen for 1-2 months.