Written by Lauren Curl-Ferrell on November 22, 2021. 

These are a few of my favorite things.

Cake. Candy Canes. Sprinkles. Yep- I'm here for it. ESPECIALLY if it's got protein and nutrients in it. 

The holiday season tends to disrupt my normal diet. I've been on a slow and steady health journey over the last year and I'd like to keep myself going strong, even during my weakness: HOLIDAY TREAT SEASON.

Over this past year, I made a really great and simple healthy cake pop recipe that I keep revisiting with different toppings and tasty accessories. So when I was brainstorming which dessert to have in the refrigerator for my sweet tooth this season, using this recipe was a no brainer. 

These holiday cake themed protein balls are packed with energy and a whole lot of happiness. They're made with vanilla-flavored protein powder, these protein balls have a similar consistency to vanilla confetti cake pops.

Their subtle fruity sweetness comes from applesauce, which keeps these energy bites moist and soft!

The Perfect Treat

Aren't cake pops just the best? They're so fun and exciting and super easy to take on the go. I remember the first time I tried one and was immediately hooked. 

This recipe plays tribute to a fan favorite but adds that holiday touch without the guilt. 

They are perfect if you’re looking for a healthy snack to share with your friends and family. Also, these applesauce protein balls are:

• no-bake
• easy to prepare
• only 5 ingredients (4 if you leave out the extra sweetener)
• high-protein
• high-fiber
• low calories
• helps with digestion and nutrient absorption

Ingredient Breakdown

These ingredients can be found at your local grocery store or online!

Applesauce:

When selecting one, try to shoot for an unsweetened one.

NB Pure x Earthy Andy Plant Powered Protein:

NB Pure stands behind it’s commitment to adding Nothing But Pure, all-natural ingredients. Sourced and processed in a safe and environmentally friendly way in North America. Each serving of Plant Powered Protein contains:

• 20g of Complete North American Pea Protein
• 5g of Carbs with only 2g of sugar
• 2g of dietary fiber
• 2g of fat with 0g of saturated fat
• 200mg of Prebiotic, Probiotic, and Digestive Enzyme blend

Coconut Flour:

Coconut flour is a gluten-free flour made solely from coconuts. Rich in fiber and MCTs, it may promote stable blood sugar, good digestion, and heart health. It may also boost weight loss and fight some infections. Plus, it's delicious and versatile, making it a smart choice when choosing flour alternatives.

Sprinkles and/or Candy Canes:

The perfect seasonal topping for the right about of fun in these cake pops. 

How To Make

This is probably the easiest protein ball recipe in the world. Simply add all of your ingredients into a bowl and mix them up until they make a dough. You can add more applesauce to make them thinner, or add more coconut flour to thicken them up!

Once the dough is ready, roll them into quarter sized balls.

Feel free to add in your sprinkles and candy canes before you roll them up. Or if you're like me, and want them to just coat the outside, then press them into a bowl of sprinkles / candy canes. 

You can enjoy immediately or refrigerate!

RECIPE VARIATIONS AND OPTIONAL ADD INS:

• Feel free to experiment with natural flavoring / extracts. Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract, or vanilla bean paste, or even peppermint extract. 
• Coat these in melted white chocolate to turn these into birthday cake truffles
• Add a tsp of lemon zest for more flavor.

HOW TO STORE

• Store these protein balls covered in the fridge for up to 3-5 days.

FINAL TIPS

• Coconut flour and protein powders are all very different depending on brands, so if you find that the dough is too soft, add more coconut flour; if the dough is too thick, add a teaspoon or more of water, honey or liquid sweetener of choice.

Full Recipe Breakdown

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients