These Lemon Poppy Seed Protein Bites are a delicious, healthy, and protein-packed snack, perfect for meal prepping or a quick energy boost throughout the day. With a delightful blend of almond flour, coconut flour, and protein powder, these bites are not only nutritious but also bursting with fresh lemon flavor and the satisfying crunch of poppy seeds. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or a light dessert, they’re a fun and easy treat to make!

Lemon Poppy Seed Protein Bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Lemon Poppy Seed Protein Bites are not only packed with protein, but they’re also gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and easy to make. The combination of almond flour and coconut flour gives them a perfectly soft and chewy texture, while the lemon zest and juice provide a fresh, zesty flavor that’s both tangy and sweet. Plus, with an optional glaze made from maple syrup and coffee creamer, they’re a treat that’s both nutritious and indulgent. These bites are ideal for a post-workout snack, a quick breakfast, or just a healthy, satisfying treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup almond flour
¼ cup coconut flour
2 scoops vanilla or unflavored protein powder (see recipe notes for recommendations)
⅓ cup melted coconut oil
¼ cup maple syrup
½ a lemon, juiced and zested
1 heaping tablespoon poppy seeds

Optional Glaze Ingredients:

3 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
2 teaspoons coffee creamer

Directions

Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, coconut flour, protein powder, poppy seeds, and lemon zest.
Melt coconut oil: In a separate bowl, melt the coconut oil. Once melted, whisk in the maple syrup and lemon juice.
Form dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Use a spatula, then your hands, to fold and combine the ingredients until the dough reaches a firm, cookie-dough consistency. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more almond flour to thicken it.
Press into container: Line a bread loaf pan or meal prep container (about 6 x 4 inches) with wax paper. Firmly press the dough into the container, making sure it’s evenly spread.
Refrigerate: Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours to set.
Prepare the glaze (optional): If you want to glaze the bites, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and coffee creamer until smooth. Spread the glaze evenly over the set dough.
Freeze to set glaze: Place the glazed bites in the freezer for about 20 minutes to set the glaze.
Slice and enjoy: Once set, remove the bites from the container, slice them into bite-sized pieces, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 14-18 bites
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes (including refrigeration time)

Variations

Add-ins: Feel free to add some chopped nuts, dried fruit, or dark chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
Vegan option: Use a plant-based protein powder (such as Bob’s Red Mill with Nutritional Booster) and swap the honey for maple syrup.
Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free thanks to the almond and coconut flour, so there’s no need for any substitutions.

Storage/Reheating

Storing: Store the protein bites in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days, or frozen for up to 1 month.
Reheating: These bites are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Simply thaw frozen bites in the fridge overnight or on the counter for a few minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different protein powder?

Yes, you can use any vanilla or unflavored protein powder you like. If using unflavored, add an extra tablespoon of maple syrup to compensate for the sweetness.

2. Can I skip the glaze?

Absolutely! The bites are already sweet enough on their own. The glaze is optional, but it does make the bites look more appealing and adds a nice finishing touch.

3. How do I make these bites more or less sweet?

Adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup to the dough. If you prefer them less sweet, reduce the amount of maple syrup slightly.

4. Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?

Yes, you can use agave syrup or honey if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the consistency if needed.

5. Can I make these without coconut flour?

If you don’t have coconut flour, you can substitute with an additional ¼ cup of almond flour, but note that it will affect the texture slightly.

6. Can I make these bites without poppy seeds?

Yes, you can leave out the poppy seeds, or substitute them with chia seeds for a different texture and added omega-3s.

7. Can I add other flavors to these bites?

Absolutely! You can add a dash of cinnamon, vanilla extract, or even a handful of chocolate chips for added flavor.

8. Can I make a larger batch of these?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger pan to make more bites. Adjust the refrigeration time if necessary.

9. Can I use a different fat instead of coconut oil?

Yes, you can substitute the coconut oil with melted butter or another neutral oil like avocado oil.

10. How do I know when the bites are set and ready to slice?

Once the bites have chilled for at least 2 hours and are firm to the touch, they are ready to be sliced. If you’ve added a glaze, make sure it’s completely set before slicing.

Conclusion

These Lemon Poppy Seed Protein Bites are an easy-to-make, healthy, and delicious snack that’s packed with protein, making them perfect for breakfast, a post-workout snack, or even dessert. With simple ingredients and an optional glaze for extra sweetness, these bites are a versatile and satisfying treat that you can enjoy throughout the week. Whether you choose to store them in the fridge or freeze them for later, they’re a convenient and tasty addition to your meal prep!

Lemon Poppy Seed Protein Bites

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Author: Amelia
Total Time: 35 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 14-18 bites

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Description

These Lemon Poppy Seed Protein Bites are the perfect healthy snack or meal prep option, combining the zesty freshness of lemon with the crunch of poppy seeds and a protein boost. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients like almond flour and coconut flour, these bites are delicious on their own or with a sweet glaze. Ideal for anyone looking for a nutritious snack or a post-workout treat!

Instructions

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, coconut flour, protein powder, poppy seeds, and lemon zest.

Melt Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, melt the coconut oil and whisk in maple syrup.

Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a spatula. Then, use your hands to form the mixture into a firm, cookie-dough consistency. If the mixture is too wet, add more almond flour.

Press into Container: Line a bread loaf pan or a small meal prep container (~6 x 4 inches) with wax paper. Press the dough mixture firmly into the container.

Refrigerate: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before glazing and slicing into bites.

Make the Glaze (Optional): To make the glaze, whisk together coffee creamer and confectioners sugar until smooth. Spread the glaze over the chilled bites.

Freeze to Set Glaze: Freeze for about 20 minutes to set the glaze.

Serve: Once the glaze has set, slice into bites and enjoy!

Notes

Choosing Protein Powder: Use your preferred vanilla or unflavored protein powder. If using unflavored, add an additional tbsp of maple syrup for sweetness.

Protein Powder Recommendations: Bob’s Red Mill Nutritional Booster (vanilla flavor with added chia seeds) is a great choice for a naturally sweetened option with added fiber and omega-3s.

Meal Prep Tips: These bites can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 1 month. They will be chewier if kept in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-bake
Cuisine: American

Lemon Poppy Seed Protein Bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe