Pin Embrace the holiday spirit with these Protein-Packed Italian Christmas Cookie Balls, a delightful twist on a traditional favorite. Blending wholesome ingredients like almond and oat flours with vanilla protein powder, they offer a nourishing yet indulgent treat for festive occasions. Soft and chewy, each cookie ball is lightly glazed and topped with colorful sprinkles, making them perfect for sharing with loved ones or gifting during the season.
Pin These Italian cookie balls combine traditional holiday flavors with a modern boost of protein, making them a smart and delicious option for your dessert table. The blend of almond and oat flour creates a tender crumb, while the hint of almond extract and fresh lemon zest adds brightness. After baking, a sweet glaze finishes them off beautifully, adding a glossy touch that's irresistible.
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients
1 cup (120 g) almond flour
1 cup (120 g) oat flour
1 scoop (30 g) vanilla protein powder
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt - Wet Ingredients
1/4 cup (60 ml) melted coconut oil or unsalted butter
1/3 cup (80 ml) maple syrup or honey
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract
Zest of 1 lemon - Add-Ins
1/3 cup (50 g) mini dark chocolate chips or chopped dried fruit (optional) - Glaze
3/4 cup (90 g) powdered sugar
1–2 tbsp (15–30 ml) milk (dairy or plant-based)
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Festive nonpareils or sprinkles
Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. Mix dry ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour, oat flour, protein powder, baking powder, and salt.
- 3. Combine wet ingredients
- In a separate bowl, mix melted coconut oil (or butter), maple syrup (or honey), egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and lemon zest until smooth.
- 4. Form the dough
- Add wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Stir until a soft dough forms.
- 5. Add optional mix-ins
- Fold in mini chocolate chips or dried fruit, if using.
- 6. Shape cookie balls
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough and roll into balls. Place on prepared baking sheet.
- 7. Bake
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- 8. Prepare glaze and finish
- For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip cooled cookie balls into glaze, then top with sprinkles. Allow glaze to set before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Ensure the dough is soft but not too sticky to easily roll into balls. If the mixture feels too wet, chill it briefly before shaping. Baking time can vary slightly depending on oven type, so watch for a light golden color. Letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet before moving them helps keep their shape intact.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Try swapping almond flour for hazelnut or cashew flour for a different nutty flavor profile. For a cozy holiday touch, add 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. Mix in chopped dried fruits or dark chocolate chips to customize the sweetness and texture to your liking.
Serviervorschläge
These cookie balls pair wonderfully with a shot of espresso or a glass of sweet dessert wine. Present them on a festive platter for holiday gatherings or package them in decorative tins for thoughtful edible gifts that friends and family will adore.
Pin Whether for festive family moments or a delightful gift, these Protein-Packed Italian Christmas Cookie Balls embody holiday cheer with nourishing ingredients and a festive flair. Enjoy the joy of baking and sharing these treats that bring together tradition, flavor, and wellness in every bite.
Recipe Q&A
- → What flours are used in these cookie balls?
Almond flour and oat flour form the base, providing a tender texture and nutty flavor.
- → How is protein incorporated into the dough?
Vanilla protein powder is mixed with the dry ingredients, boosting the nutritional profile.
- → Can I substitute the sweeteners used?
Yes, maple syrup or honey can be used interchangeably to add natural sweetness.
- → What gives the cookie balls their glaze?
A mixture of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract creates a smooth glaze that sets once cooled.
- → Are there options to add texture or flavor variations?
Mini dark chocolate chips or chopped dried fruit can be folded into the dough for added texture and taste.
- → How should these balls be stored after baking?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to maintain freshness.