These Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty way to boost your energy! Made with pumpkin puree, oats, and protein powder, they’re both healthy and yummy.
They’re so easy to make, I whip them up in no time! They make a perfect snack or dessert after a workout—just pop one in your mouth and enjoy! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These provide a great base for structure and fiber. If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats work too, but avoid instant oatmeal as it can make the texture too mushy.
Pumpkin Puree: You can use canned pumpkin for convenience or make your own by roasting and blending fresh pumpkin. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling.
Nut Butter: I love using natural peanut butter, but almond butter or any nut butter works just as well. For a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter is perfect!
Sweetener: Honey is my go-to, but maple syrup is a great vegan substitute. You can cut back on sweetness if you prefer or even use stevia if you’re watching sugar intake.
Protein Powder: This is optional, but it adds a nice protein boost. Use any flavor or type you like, or leave it out altogether for a lighter snack.
How Do I Make Sure My Protein Balls Hold Together?
Binding the ingredients properly is key to keeping those protein balls intact. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your mixture is sticky enough before rolling. If it feels too dry, add a little more pumpkin puree or nut butter.
- Mix everything well! It helps all ingredients stick together.
- Chilling is important! Refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to firm them up.
These tips will help you create perfect pumpkin protein balls that are not only tasty but also easy to eat! Enjoy your healthy snack! 🌟
Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut (plus extra for rolling)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In just a bit over 45 minutes, you can have a tasty and healthy snack ready to go!
Instructions
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Stir these ingredients together until they are well mixed. This will be the base of your protein balls!
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Next, add in the pumpkin puree, nut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir everything until it comes together into a sticky dough. It’s okay if it feels a bit sticky; that helps hold the balls together!
3. Add Chocolate Chips and Coconut:
Now, fold in the mini chocolate chips and shredded coconut into the mixture. This will give your protein balls some delicious flavor and texture!
4. Roll the Balls:
Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; each ball will still taste great!
5. Coat with Coconut:
If you like, roll each ball in some extra shredded coconut to coat them. This adds a fun and tasty touch!
6. Chill Out:
Place your pumpkin protein balls on a baking sheet or plate and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps them firm up and makes them easier to eat later.
7. Store and Enjoy:
Once they’re chilled, store the protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. You can also freeze them for a longer shelf life. Enjoy these delicious, nutritious bites as a snack or a post-workout treat!
Happy snacking! 🎃
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
It’s best to stick with rolled oats for this recipe because they provide better texture and structure. Instant oats can turn mushy and may not hold the balls together well.
Can I Replace Peanut Butter with a Different Nut Butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter would work beautifully, or you can use sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. Just make sure your butter is smooth for easy mixing!
How Should I Store the Protein Balls?
Store your pumpkin protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
Can I Make These Protein Balls Vegan?
Yes! Just substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, and make sure your protein powder is plant-based. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan snack!
