Apple Cinnamon Spice Protein Truffles

The key to success is all in the preparation. I learned to love the “prep” and, lo and behold, it actually turned into my job! So I admit that I am biased when it comes to insisting on finding/making time to prepare healthy nutrient-packed snacks! 

I was inspired by all the fall flavors this season and came up with these apple cinnamon protein bites. Full of texture and flavors, they are the perfect bite to satisfy hunger while restoring and rebuilding muscle fibers. I used About Time protein – cinnamon flavor. I had never used About Time‘s products before but after looking through the ingredient list I was pleasantly surprised how clean all the ingredients were. Naturally sweetened and with no added junk. I gave it my official approval and in it went to my recipe!I went to visit my physical therapist the other day and I packed some to bring for everyone at the office. Needless to say, the staff there is always happy to see me back at PT since I always make sure to bring treats. One woman even came up to me and shared that she had been feeling very tried and hungry and lethargic that day. But once she had the apple bite she felt like a new person – energized and full of life! She added that the best part was that she didn’t feel heavy or weighed down after eating them. She was shocked how light they were. What a testimonial!They are like Apple Pie, Apple Crisp and Apple Cobbler all rolled up into this crunchy bite of protein goodness. Store them in your freezer and enjoy them all week long. A great pre or post workout snack. Disclaimer: you may not be able to stop at just one!Recipe:

• 1 1/2 cup oats divided (I used purely elizabeth apple cinnamon)
• 1/2 cup AboutTime Cinnamon Protein Powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup dried apples
• 1 cup dates
• 1 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup almond butter
• 1/2 cup unsweetened apple sauce
• 1 cup walnuts

1. In a food processor combine 1 cup oats, protein powder and cinnamon. Process until a flour forms.
2. Add in dried apples, dates, raisins, almond butter and apple sauce. Puree again until everything combines and a sticky mixture forms.
3. Now add in remaining 1/2 cup oats and 1 cup walnuts. Pulse coarsely, leaving the walnuts with some texture.
4. Using a tablespoon or  small ice cream scooper form round balls. Yields around 22 balls.
5. Store in an air tight container in the freezer. Serve frozen– you can let it thaw for a couple of minutes

Optional: coat balls in crushed nuts