Save Celebrate the holidays with a nutritious twist on tradition. These Protein-Packed Italian Christmas Cookie Balls combine the beloved flavors of classic Italian cookies with the added benefit of protein, making them a nourishing treat for festive gatherings. Soft, flavorful, and lightly glazed, each bite offers a delightful balance of sweetness and wholesome ingredients, making them perfect for gifting or sharing with loved ones during the season.
Save These cookie balls are not only delicious but also versatile. The combination of almond and oat flours provides a nutty base, while the vanilla protein powder enhances the nutritional profile. The glaze adds a festive touch that brings out the sweetness without overpowering the natural flavors. Whether you enjoy them with a morning espresso or as a dessert alongside a sweet wine, they offer a satisfying treat for any time of day.
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 to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour, oat flour, protein powder, baking powder, and salt.
- 3. 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. Add wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Stir until a soft dough forms.
- 5. Fold in mini chocolate chips or dried fruit, if using.
- 6. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough and roll into balls. Place on prepared baking sheet.
- 7. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- 8. 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
Beachten Sie, dass das Ersetzen von Mandelmehl durch Haselnuss- oder Cashewmehl die Geschmacksnote verändert, aber genauso lecker ist. Für eine würzige Variante können Sie 1/2 Teelöffel gemahlenen Zimt oder Muskatnuss hinzufügen, was besonders gut in der Weihnachtszeit harmoniert.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Je nach Geschmack können Mini-Schokoladenchips oder getrocknete Früchte hinzugefügt werden, um den Cookie-Bällen eine persönliche Note zu verleihen. Achten Sie darauf, bei der Verwendung von Proteinpulvern die Zutatenliste zu prüfen, damit keine unerwünschten Allergene enthalten sind.
Serviervorschläge
Diese Cookie-Bälle eignen sich hervorragend als Begleitung zu einem Espresso oder einem süßen Dessertwein und bringen festliche Stimmung an jeden Tisch. Sie lassen sich außerdem wunderbar in luftdichten Behältern bis zu fünf Tage frisch halten – ideal für Geschenkideen oder zum Vorbereiten von Festivitäten.
Save Genießen Sie die festliche Saison mit diesen köstlichen, proteinreichen italienischen Weihnachtskeksen – eine wunderbare Möglichkeit, traditionelle Aromen mit gesunden Zutaten zu verbinden und Freude zu teilen.
Recipe Guide
- → What flours are used in these cookie balls?
Almond flour and oat flour are combined to create a tender, slightly nutty base for the cookie balls.
- → Can the protein powder be substituted?
Yes, you can use various vanilla-flavored protein powders depending on preference or diet restrictions.
- → What gives the cookie balls their soft texture?
The combination of almond and oat flours along with melted coconut oil or butter ensures a soft, tender crumb.
- → Are there any flavor variations suggested?
Adding ground cinnamon or nutmeg can provide a warm, spiced twist to the flavor profile.
- → How should these treats be stored?
Store in an airtight container for up to five days to maintain freshness and texture.