These Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty and healthy snack packed with pumpkin goodness! Made with oats, nut butter, and a touch of honey, they’re perfect for a quick energy boost.
They’re like little bites of fall! I love munching on these while watching my favorite shows. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up—just mix, roll, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These form the base of your protein balls, giving them great texture. You can swap them with quick oats or gluten-free oats if needed!
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin is super convenient, but if you have fresh pumpkin, just roast it first and blend it until smooth. Both parties work great!
Nut Butter: Almond butter gives a nice flavor, but peanut butter or even sunflower seed butter works well, especially for nut-free diets.
Sweetener: Honey is a classic choice, but maple syrup makes it vegan! If you’re watching sugar, try erythritol or stevia as alternatives.
Protein Powder: I prefer vanilla for extra flavor, but any flavor works. You can even skip it if you want a lighter treat or use a plant-based protein for a vegan option.
Chocolate Chips: The optional dark chocolate chips make these extra special! You can use mini chocolate chips or leave them out to cut down on sugar.
How Do I Make Sure My Protein Balls Hold Together?
This is a common concern! The key is that your mixture needs to be moist enough to hold its shape but not too wet. If it feels too dry, add a touch more nut butter or a little water!
- Make sure to chill the mixture for 20-30 minutes. This helps it firm up, making it easier to roll into balls.
- If the balls are falling apart, try adding a bit more pumpkin puree or nut butter to give it more stickiness.
- Consider pressing the mixture tightly as you roll—this helps them hold together better!
How to Make Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/3 cup natural almond or peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time to mix everything together. You’ll also need about 1 hour to chill the balls in the refrigerator to help them firm up. So, in total, set aside about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Wet Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add the pumpkin puree, almond or peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix everything together well using a spoon or spatula until smooth and creamy.
2. Combining Dry Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add in the good stuff! Sprinkle the rolled oats, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt into the wet mixture. Stir everything together until it’s nicely combined, and you can’t see any dry patches.
3. Adding Chocolate Chips:
If you’re using chocolate chips, gently fold them into the mixture now. This adds a delightful touch of sweetness to your protein balls!
4. Chill the Mixture:
Cover your mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle when you’re rolling the balls.
5. Forming the Balls:
After chilling, take the bowl out and scoop out small portions of the mixture with your hands. Roll each piece into a ball about 1 inch in diameter. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; just have fun with it!
6. Final Chill to Firm Up:
Once you’ve rolled them all, place the protein balls on a tray lined with parchment paper. Put the tray back in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps them firm up nicely.
7. Storage:
Store your delicious pumpkin protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage and enjoy them any time you like!
Now, just sit back, relax, and enjoy your tasty and nutritious pumpkin protein balls as a perfect energy-boosting snack!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats! They will give a slightly different texture but still work well in this recipe. Just be mindful that they may absorb moisture differently, so adjust the wet ingredients if needed.
What Can I Substitute for Honey or Maple Syrup?
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use agave nectar, brown rice syrup, or even a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol for a lower-sugar option. Just remember that the flavor may differ slightly!
How Should I Store the Pumpkin Protein Balls?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze well! Just place them in a freezer-safe container, and they can last up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with add-ins like chia seeds, flax seeds, shredded coconut, or different types of nuts. Just keep the total volume in mind to maintain the right texture.