My family loves it when I bake my famous Snickerdoodle cookies since I usually reserve them for the holidays. But sometimes, I really just want the Snickerdoodle flavor, but without the sugar rush or lengthy baking process. That’s why I came up with these easy snickerdoodle balls. If you’re unfamiliar with Snickerdoodles, they’re basically sugar cookies coated in cinnamon sugar. Just like our snickerdoodle cake, it’s the cinnamon that really sets them apart from other dessert-inspired snacks.
Why this recipe works
Cinnamon goodness. If you’re a lover of all things cinnamon, you’ll love these protein balls! They’re warm, sweet, and perfectly spiced. Easy to make ahead. We always have protein balls in my kitchen since they’re easy to make in advance, and they last for a long time in the fridge. Ready in minutes. All you do is make the batter, shape the balls, then toss them in cinnamon sugar, and let them firm up in the fridge. It’s that easy! No protein powder. Even if you’re not a big fan of protein powder, or you’re fresh out, you can still enjoy these protein-packed energy balls.
We love having these snickerdoodle bites during the holidays since they’re way more nutritious than traditional desserts but still offer that same festive flavor, just like these pumpkin balls and eggnog bites.
Ingredients needed
You’ll only need a few simple ingredients to make these delectable treats.
Almond flour. I prefer using blanched almond flour for no-bake treats, but you could also use regular almond meal if you’re in a pinch. Coconut flour. I always recommend using coconut flour in no-bake desserts since it absorbs moisture best and offers fiber and protein. Cinnamon. A must for any Snickerdoodle! Granulated sweetener. I used white sugar, but brown sugar or a sugar alternative will also work. Almond butter. Preferably smooth and creamy almond butter with no added sugar. While I prefer the flavor of almond butter, you could use any nut or seed butter. Maple syrup. To complement the cinnamon and bind the ingredients together. Milk. I used unsweetened almond milk, but any milk will work. More cinnamon and sweetener. For coating the protein balls.
Find the printable recipe with measurements below.
How to make snickerdoodle protein balls
Step 1- Combine the dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the flours, sweetener, and cinnamon. Step 2- Add wet ingredients. In a microwave-safe bowl or stovetop, melt the almond butter with maple syrup. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix well to combine. If the batter is crumbly, add 1 tablespoon of milk at a time until a thick, shapeable batter is formed. Step 3- Shape into balls. Use your hands to shape the dough into equal-sized balls and set them aside. Step 4- Coat in cinnamon sugar. In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and sweetener. Gently roll each ball in the cinnamon mixture and refrigerate for 10 minutes or until firm.
Recipe tips and variations
Lightly wet your hands. So the balls are easier to roll out. Make them nut-free. If you have a nut allergy, swap out the almond flour for oat flour and the almond butter for tahini or sunflower seed butter. Swap out the maple syrup. I tested honey and agave, and they both work great. You could even use keto-friendly honey. Use a cookie scoop. To get even-sized balls with half the effort. Taste as you go. This no-bake recipe is 100% safe to eat straight out of the bowl, so taste the batter before you shape the balls and add more sweetener or cinnamon if needed.
Storage instructions
To store: Leftover snickerdoodle energy balls are best kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 weeks. To freeze: Place the energy bites in a freezer-safe bag and freeze them for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, let them thaw overnight in the fridge.
Frequently asked questions
More no-bake snacks to try
Cookie dough bites– No-bake cookie dough that’s safe and delicious to eat raw. Peanut butter protein balls– Made with only 4 ingredients and zero added sugar. Apricot delight– Full of vibrant apricot flavor, these are the perfect midday snack you can enjoy year-round. Larabars– Everyone’s favorite healthy snack, made with wholesome ingredients and 10 flavor options. Banana protein bars– Healthy, delicious protein bars that taste just like banana bread.
Recipe originally published December 2018 but updated to include new information for your benefit.
