Happy Monday, all! Today is a very special Monday, because it’s Hope’s birthday!! To celebrate, we’ve teamed up with Vitacost and Optimum Nutrition to test out their new Gold Standard® 100% plant-based, organic protein powder. And what better way to try this new product than with birthday cake inspired protein bites?

We love making our own protein bites for a post-workout snack or just to have on hand when a mid-afternoon snack attack hits. They can often be made using ingredients you already have in your pantry, and will likely cost less than buying protein bars.

For all you bakers out there, you can bake with this protein powder! The Gold Standard® protein powder is available on Vitacost.com for 15% off through today. Keep an eye out for a giveaway on our Instagram page today!

Cake Batter Protein Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 2 scoops vanilla protein powder; we used Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard® 100% Plant Protein Vanilla.
• 1/3 cup cashew butter
• 2/3 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp rainbow sprinkles

Instructions:

1. Place all ingredients besides sprinkles in a food processor and process on high until thoroughly combined and smooth.
2. Fold in sprinkles.
3. Form mixture into approx. 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet. You should have about 20 protein bites total. TIP: You will have much more success with rolling if you slightly wet your hands. If not, the batter will stick to your hands, and it will be difficult to form a good ball. Don’t be alarmed if your wet hands make the ball look soapy or white when you’re rolling (protein powder reaction). Also, you may want to lightly spray the cookie sheet with cooking spray so balls are easier to remove once frozen.
4. Place baking sheet in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before enjoying. Store protein bites in the fridge or freezer until ready to eat.

Yield: 10 servings
Serving size: 2 protein bites

129 calories per serving • Fat: 6.2g • Carbohydrates: 12.2g • Protein: 6.9g