Save to Pins Protein-Packed Italian Christmas Cookie Balls offer a festive twist on a beloved classic. These soft and flavorful cookies are enriched with protein, making them a nourishing holiday treat that's perfect for sharing with family and friends or gifting during the season. Coated in a light glaze and sprinkled with festive decorations, they bring both joy and a delightful taste to any holiday table.
Save to Pins With a balance of wholesome ingredients like almond and oat flours and a hint of lemon zest, these cookie balls bring a refreshing aroma and rich taste to the holiday season. Optional add-ins like mini chocolate chips or dried fruit add personalized flair and extra bursts of flavor.
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 ingredients
- 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 a smooth dough, measure flours accurately and mix gently to avoid overworking. When glazing, dip quickly and evenly for a delicate coating. Cool the cookies properly before glazing for the best results.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Swap almond flour with hazelnut or cashew flour to alter the flavor profile. Add 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a spiced variation. Choose between mini chocolate chips or chopped dried fruits as your add-ins.
Serviervorschläge
These cookie balls pair wonderfully with a freshly brewed espresso or a sweet dessert wine, making them an excellent addition to your holiday dessert spread or as a thoughtful gift for loved ones.
Save to Pins These Protein-Packed Italian Christmas Cookie Balls combine convenience, nutrition, and festive cheer, making them a perfect addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Enjoy their soft texture, tasty glaze, and the joy they bring to your celebrations.
Questions & Answers
- → What flours are used in these cookie balls?
Almond flour and oat flour provide a soft texture and nutty flavor, contributing to the protein content and gluten-free option if certified oat flour is used.
- → Can I substitute the protein powder?
Yes, choose a vanilla-flavored protein powder that suits your dietary needs; ensure it does not contain allergens you wish to avoid.
- → What options enhance the flavor of the dough?
Vanilla extract, almond extract, and lemon zest combine to create a bright, aromatic base. Optional cinnamon or nutmeg adds a warm, spiced note.
- → How is the glaze made and applied?
A simple mixture of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract is whisked smooth, then cookie balls are dipped while cool to form a delicate, sweet coating topped with sprinkles.
- → What storage advice is recommended?
Keep the cookie balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Are these suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, the ingredients used support a vegetarian diet, with eggs and dairy included unless substituted.