Soft, chewy, and packed with wholesome ingredients, these Cinnamon Banana Oat Protein Bites are the perfect anytime snack. Made with oats, ripe banana, nut butter, and a boost of protein, they’re naturally sweetened and warmly spiced with cinnamon. These no-bake bites are easy to prep, freezer-friendly, and ideal for breakfast on the go, a post-workout nibble, or a healthy treat to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- ½ cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
- ¼ cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips, raisins, or chopped nuts
How to Make Cinnamon Banana Oat Protein Bites
Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, mash the banana until smooth. Add peanut butter, honey (if using), and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients
Stir in oats, protein powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Fold in any mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture
Place the bowl in the fridge for 15–20 minutes to firm up the mixture. This makes it easier to roll into balls.
Step 4: Roll into Bites
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls using your hands. You should get about 12–14 bites.
Step 5: Store
Place bites in an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze as desired.
Helpful Tips
- Use overripe bananas for extra sweetness and smooth texture.
- Too sticky? Add a tablespoon of oats at a time until easy to roll.
- Too dry? Add a splash of milk or more banana.
Substitutions and Variations
- No protein powder? Replace with ground flaxseed or an extra 2 tablespoons of oats.
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter or tahini.
- Add-ins: Diced dried fruit, coconut flakes, or a dash of nutmeg for a warm twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these without protein powder?
Yes! They’re still nutritious and delicious without it—just adjust the oats if needed for texture.
Do these need to be refrigerated?
Yes, for best freshness and texture, keep them chilled.
Can I use quick oats?
Quick oats work fine, though rolled oats offer a bit more texture.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Let thaw for 10 minutes before enjoying.
More Recipes to Try
If you love these bites, check out:
- Cottage Cheese Banana Oat Protein Pancake Bites – Baked and fluffy with a similar flavor.
- Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Snack Bites – Fruity, spiced, and oven-baked.
- Peanut Butter Banana & Blueberry Overnight Oats – A creamy, prep-ahead breakfast.
- Lemon Coconut Protein Balls – Bright, zesty, and energizing.
Cinnamon Banana Oat Protein Bites are a perfect mix of comfort and convenience—no oven, no fuss, just clean energy in every delicious bite. Whether you need a healthy snack or a post-workout treat, these bites will have your back all week long.