Apple Cinnamon Energy Bites

Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Spread 1 cup of rolled oats on the prepared baking sheet and toast in the oven for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden, stirring halfway through. Allow to cool completely.

While oats are toasting, peel, core, and finely dice 1 medium fresh apple into small pieces (about 1/4-inch cubes).

Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the diced apple, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized. Set aside to cool.

In a food processor, pulse 1 cup of dried apples until they're broken down into small pieces but not completely pureed.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted oats, remaining 1 cup of untoasted oats, 1 cup of vanilla whey protein powder, processed dried apples, 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, 2 tablespoons chia seeds, and 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal.

Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/8 teaspoon of ground cloves, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to the dry mixture and stir to combine.

In a small saucepan over low heat, warm 1/2 cup of almond butter and 1/3 cup of honey, stirring until smooth and well combined, about 2-3 minutes.

Pour the warm almond butter mixture over the dry ingredients and add the cooled sautéed apples. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated and slightly sticky.

Allow the mixture to cool for 10 minutes if still warm from the almond butter mixture.

With slightly damp hands, roll the mixture into 16 balls (about 2 tablespoons each). If the mixture is too sticky, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes before rolling.

Place the energy bites on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for longer storage.