Science has long proven that protein is an essential part of a balanced diet. In athletes, protein is even more important for the process of muscle repair, as well as general body functions like facilitating hydration, maintaining a balanced pH, increased immunity and even blood health – not to mention building lean muscle mass.

So we’ve gathered up some of the best protein powered recipes that feature apples. Because what better way to enjoy naturally sweet apples that are already packed with fiber, other than punching them up with protein for a fueled up snack.

Apple Peanut Butter Bars
Fueling A Fit Fam shares with us her Apple Peanut Butter Bars which look yummy and are super easy to make with ingredients probably already in your pantry.

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No Bake Apple Pie Protein Bars
The Big Man’s World promises us that although this yummy treat is not a dessert, it is most certainly dessert worthy and a great alternative as a daily dessert or snack. And it’s no bake – bam – take that oven! P.S. If you need some applesauce for this recipe check out our post on how to make applesauce here.

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Apple Cinnamon Protein Muffins
Blogger Clean & Delicious has a great recipe for these muffins which look like the perfect grab-and-go, out the door, morning breakfast for those busy days, or when you just pushed snooze one too many times.

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Clean Apple Pie Scones
Clean eating is super important to athletes, as well as people looking to make dietary changes. We love that blogger Amy’s Healthy Baking created these decadent looking scones that are only 140 calories each and still have 5 g of protein.

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Caramel Apple Protein Popsicles
Who doesn’t want a cool and refreshing snack after a long workout – and these popsicles look like a perfect stand in for our typical go-to fudgesicles. Thanks for the great idea Shashi at Runnin Srilankan.

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Ham, Cheese & Apple Wraps
And finally Some The Wiser reminds us that getting our protein doesn’t have to be complicated. Just get yourself a slice of apple, a slice of cheese and a little ham and you’ve got the perfect protein bite.

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We love all of these protein snacks featuring apples, and all the great ideas for healthy eating. Do yourself a favor and #EatWholesome #BeWholesome. Stay tuned for more great snacking ideas and the best uses for apples, pears, cherries and blueberries we can think of.