These Easy Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty and healthy snack! Made with pumpkin puree, oats, and protein powder, they’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt.
I love making a batch of these for a quick snack during the day. Plus, they taste like little bites of fall! Just roll them up and enjoy—easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Canned Pumpkin Puree: This gives the protein balls moisture and a nice pumpkin flavor. If you don’t have canned pumpkin, you can use homemade pumpkin puree, but ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
Rolled Oats: They add texture and fiber. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free oats. You could also use quick oats; just know the texture will change slightly.
Protein Powder: I use vanilla protein powder for flavor. If you don’t have it, you could skip it or use oats to thicken the mixture instead. Just remember that it might have less protein content.
Nut Butter: Almond butter and peanut butter both work great. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seed butter is an excellent alternative.
Sweetener: Honey adds a lovely sweetness, but maple syrup is a great vegan alternative. Adjust the amount to your taste if you prefer less sweetness.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Texture for My Protein Balls?
The texture is key in making delicious protein balls! Start by mixing your wet ingredients well before adding the dry ones. This ensures everything blends evenly.
- If your mixture seems too wet, add extra rolled oats a little at a time until it thickens.
- Conversely, if it’s too dry, a splash of water or more pumpkin will help bind it.
- After rolling into balls, refrigerate them. This step is crucial for helping them firm up and hold their shape when you eat them.
Easy Pumpkin Protein Balls for Healthy Snacks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1.5 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional add-ins: mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries (1/4 cup)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and then you’ll want to chill them for at least 30 minutes before enjoying. So, you’re looking at a total of about 45 minutes to an hour from start to snack time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Combine the canned pumpkin puree, almond or peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and well mixed.
2. Add the Dry Ingredients:
Next, it’s time to add the rolled oats, protein powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger (if using), and a pinch of salt to your pumpkin mixture. Mix well until you have a thick, sticky dough. If it feels too wet, sprinkle in more oats; if it’s too dry, add a touch more pumpkin or a splash of water.
3. Fold in Optional Add-Ins:
If you’d like a little extra texture or sweetness, fold in your optional ingredients like mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries now!
4. Shape the Balls:
With clean hands or using a small scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate to keep them from sticking.
5. Chill:
Put the protein balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help them firm up so they hold their shape.
6. Store and Enjoy:
Once chilled, you can store your pumpkin protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they also freeze well! Just grab one whenever you need a nutritious, on-the-go snack!
FAQ for Easy Pumpkin Protein Balls
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Just make sure to cook and puree it first. Be sure to drain any excess moisture to keep your mixture from getting too wet.
How Can I Make These Protein Balls Vegan?
To make these protein balls vegan, simply replace honey with maple syrup and use a plant-based protein powder. Almond butter is generally vegan-friendly, but ensure the one you choose does not have any added ingredients that are non-vegan.
What Other Add-Ins Can I Use?
Feel free to customize! You can add in flaxseeds, chia seeds, or even shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor. Just keep an eye on the consistency and adjust the wet or dry ingredients accordingly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just let them thaw in the fridge before enjoying!