Save Protein-Packed Italian Christmas Cookie Balls put a nourishing twist on a beloved holiday classic. Soft and full of flavor, these cookie balls blend almond and oat flours with vanilla protein powder to deliver a treat that’s both festive and healthy. Coated in a light glaze and festive sprinkles, they’re perfect for sharing with loved ones or gifting this season.
Save Combining traditional Italian flavors with modern nutrition, these cookie balls bring both comfort and sustenance to your festive celebrations. Their subtle lemon zest and almond extract brighten the taste, while optional chocolate chips or dried fruit add delightful bursts of flavor. Baking a batch is a joyful way to spread holiday cheer with friends and family.
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. Combine dry ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour, oat flour, protein powder, baking powder, and salt.
- 3. Mix 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 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. Glaze and decorate
- 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
To ensure perfect texture, chill the dough briefly if it feels too sticky before rolling. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye for a light golden color. For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil and plant-based milk in the glaze.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Swap almond flour for hazelnut or cashew flour to add different nutty notes. Enhance warmth by adding 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. For variety, substitute mini dark chocolate chips with chopped dried fruit like cranberries or cherries.
Serviervorschläge
These cookie balls pair beautifully with a rich espresso or a sweet dessert wine for a festive treat. Store leftovers in an airtight container to enjoy their softness for up to 5 days, perfect for holiday gatherings or gift boxes.
Save With these protein-packed Italian Christmas Cookie Balls, you can add a healthy twist to your holiday baking traditions without sacrificing taste. Their soft texture, subtle citrus notes, and festive decorations make them a standout treat to enjoy all season long.
Recipe Guide
- → What flours are used in these Italian balls?
Almond flour and oat flour provide a nutty, wholesome base and tender texture.
- → How is the protein integrated into the balls?
The protein powder is mixed with dry ingredients to enrich the dough without altering the soft, light texture.
- → Can the sweetener be substituted?
Maple syrup can be swapped with honey to adjust sweetness and flavor profile.
- → What options are available for add-ins?
Mini dark chocolate chips or chopped dried fruit can be folded in for added texture and taste.
- → How should these balls be stored?
Store in an airtight container for up to five days to maintain freshness and softness.