Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty and healthy snack! Packed with pumpkin puree, chia seeds, and protein, they are perfect for a quick energy boost.
These little bites are easy to make and are great for on-the-go munching. I love how they are chewy and slightly sweet. Perfect for a fun afternoon treat! 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: They provide a great chewy texture. If you’re gluten-sensitive, look for certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats can be used but may yield a different texture.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin works great, but you can also use fresh pumpkin. Just roast and puree it. If you want to change it up, try sweet potato puree for a different flavor.
Chia Seeds: They add nutrition and help bind the balls. If you don’t have chia seeds, you can substitute flaxseeds, but grind them first for better absorption.
Nut Butter: Almond or peanut butter gives a rich flavor. Sunflower seed butter is a good alternative for nut-free options.
Protein Powder: Use your favorite type! If you don’t have any, you can skip it, but the protein content will drop. Just add a bit more nut butter to maintain the consistency.
How Do I Ensure My Protein Balls Hold Together?
Getting the right consistency is key for your protein balls. Here’s how to make sure they stick together nicely:
- After mixing all ingredients, check the dough: It should be sticky but not too wet. If it’s too dry, add a little more pumpkin puree or nut butter.
- Chill the mixture! This step is crucial for helping the balls hold together. It makes rolling easier too.
- Press firmly when rolling the balls. This ensures a good shape and helps them stick together better.
Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/4 cup nut butter (e.g., almond or peanut butter)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional chilling time of about 1 hour. In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy these delicious protein balls!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix The Dry Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. In it, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, chia seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Use a spoon to mix them well. Make sure everything is blended evenly!
2. Add The Wet Ingredients:
Next, pour in the pumpkin puree, nut butter, and honey (or maple syrup). Stir everything together until it forms a sticky dough. This is where the magic happens, and trust me, it smells amazing!
3. Stir in the Chocolate Chips:
If you’re using mini chocolate chips, now’s the time to fold them into the mixture. Just give it a good stir until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
4. Chill The Mixture:
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Pop it in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes. This will help the mixture firm up a bit, making it easier to roll into balls.
5. Form the Protein Balls:
After chilling, take the mixture out of the fridge. With clean hands, scoop small portions of the dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Make sure to press them firmly so they hold together nicely!
6. Place on a Baking Sheet:
Put your rolled protein balls on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper. Spread them out so they aren’t touching each other.
7. Final Chill:
Refrigerate the balls for at least 1 hour. This final chilling time helps them set, ensuring they’re easy to eat and stay together well.
8. Enjoy and Store:
Once set, enjoy your Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls as a nutritious snack or after a workout! For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Happy snacking!
Can I Use a Different Sweetener?
Absolutely! If you prefer to avoid honey or maple syrup, you can use agave syrup, stevia, or even coconut sugar. Just keep in mind that the consistency might vary slightly, so adjust the wet ingredients as needed.
What If My Mixture Is Too Dry?
If the mixture feels too dry and crumbly when you’re trying to roll it into balls, don’t worry! Just add a little more pumpkin puree or nut butter to help bind it together. Mix well until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I Freeze These Protein Balls?
Yes, you can freeze them! Place the protein balls in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!
How Many Protein Balls Does This Recipe Make?
This recipe typically yields about 12-15 protein balls, depending on how large you roll them. Feel free to double the recipe if you’d like to make a bigger batch!