Pin It Celebrate the holidays with a festive twist on a beloved Italian classic: Protein-Packed Italian Christmas Cookie Balls. These soft, flavorful treats are enriched with protein and almond goodness, making them a nourishing option for the season. Coated in a delicate glaze and decorated with cheerful sprinkles, they’re as delightful to gift as they are to share around the table.
Pin It This recipe brings together wholesome almond and oat flours, aromatic extracts, and a hint of lemon zest to create a cookie ball that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Whether you’re making them to snack on yourself or to share at holiday gatherings, these cookies balance nutrition with festive cheer.
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
Be sure to use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. For a smooth glaze, whisk the powdered sugar with milk gradually to avoid lumps. Let the cookies cool completely before dipping in glaze to avoid melting.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Replace almond flour with hazelnut or cashew flour for a different nutty flavor. Add 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced variation. Use mini chocolate chips or chopped dried fruit to customize each batch to your liking.
Serviervorschläge
Store the cookie balls in an airtight container for up to 5 days to keep them fresh. They pair beautifully with a strong espresso or a glass of sweet dessert wine, perfect for holiday celebrations.
Pin It With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and simple steps, these Protein-Packed Italian Christmas Cookie Balls deliver holiday joy in every bite. Their balance of nourishing protein and festive flavor makes them a standout treat for celebrating the season with family and friends.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute the protein powder with another ingredient?
Yes, you can replace protein powder with extra almond or oat flour for a softer texture, though protein content will decrease.
- → What can I use instead of coconut oil?
Unsalted butter works well as an alternative, contributing to a rich flavor.
- → How can I add a spiced twist to these cookie balls?
Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced note.
- → Are these cookie balls suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, these use ingredients compatible with vegetarian preferences, including almond flour and egg.
- → How should I store these cookie balls?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.