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Holiday Baking Day Protein Bites

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Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Rolled oats 1 cup, lightly pulsed; Structure and chew. Quick oats work, but rolled give better texture.
  • 3/4 cup Vanilla or unflavored whey/plant protein powder Adds protein and helps bind. Choose a brand you actually like.
  • 1/2 cup Natural almond or peanut butter Creaminess and healthy fats. Stir well so it's smooth.
  • 3–4 tbsp Honey or pure maple syrup Sweetness and stickiness. Start low, add to taste.
  • 1/4 cup Unsweetened shredded coconut Subtle sweetness and moisture control.
  • 1/3 cup Mini dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate Flavor pops. 60–70% cacao is the sweet spot.
  • 1–2 tbsp Chia seeds or ground flax Fiber and bind. Optional but clutch.
  • 2–4 tbsp as needed Almond milk or water To bring the dough together without stickiness.
  • 1 tsp Ground cinnamon Holiday warmth.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract Round, cozy flavor.
  • Pinch of fine sea salt Balances sweetness and boosts flavor.
  • Optional mix-ins finely chopped dried cranberries (2 tbsp), crushed pecans (2 tbsp), orange zest (1/2 tsp).

Method
 

  1. Pulse the oats. Add rolled oats to a food processor and pulse 3–5 times until roughly broken. You want texture, not flour.
  2. Mix the dry team. In a large bowl, combine pulsed oats, protein powder, shredded coconut, chia/flax, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to distribute evenly.
  3. Stir the wet team. In a separate bowl, whisk nut butter, honey/maple, vanilla, and 2 tbsp almond milk until smooth and glossy.
  4. Combine like a pro. Pour wet into dry. Use a sturdy spatula or your hands. If crumbly, add almond milk 1 tbsp at a time. If sticky, add a tablespoon of oats or protein powder.
  5. Add the bling. Fold in dark chocolate chips and any optional add-ins (cranberries, pecans, orange zest). Don't overmix or the chocolate melts.
  6. Roll the bites. Scoop about 1 tablespoon per bite (a #60 scoop is perfect). Roll into 18–22 balls. Lightly damp hands prevent sticking.
  7. Set and chill (briefly). Arrange on a parchment-lined tray. Chill 15–20 minutes to set. Not mandatory, but it makes them firm and portable.
  8. Serve or stash. Enjoy immediately or store (see Preservation Guide). Try not to “quality control” half the batch—no promises.