Pumpkin Protein Balls Recipe
Delicious and nutritious no-bake Pumpkin Protein Balls packed with rolled oats, pumpkin puree, nut butter, and vanilla protein powder, flavored with warm pumpkin pie spice and a touch of maple syrup. Perfect as a quick, wholesome snack to boost energy and satisfy cravings with the cozy taste of fall. These bites are easy to prepare, gluten-free, and customizable to your dietary needs.
- Author: Lena
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: Approximately 12-15 protein balls 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup nut butter (such as almond or peanut butter)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Extras
- Mini chocolate chips (quantity as desired, about 1/4 cup recommended)
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, nut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy with a slightly thick consistency.
- Add the dry ingredients: Add the rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of sea salt to the wet mixture. Stir vigorously until a thick dough forms. If the mixture feels too sticky, incorporate additional oats or protein powder, one tablespoon at a time, until manageable.
- Fold in the extras: Gently fold the mini chocolate chips into the dough, distributing them evenly without breaking the dough’s texture.
- Roll into balls: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate as you proceed.
- Chill and set: Refrigerate the protein balls for 20 to 30 minutes to firm up completely. Once they are set, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for extended storage.
Notes
- If the mixture is too sticky, add more oats or protein powder to achieve a workable consistency.
- If the mixture is too dry and crumbly, add a bit more pumpkin puree or nut butter to moisten.
- Chilling the balls before storage helps them maintain their shape and texture.
- Do not overuse protein powder, as it can cause a chalky texture; stick to the measured amount.
- Ensure to include pumpkin pie spice for a rich, cozy flavor; alternative spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger can be added for more complexity.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freezing for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 protein ball (approx. 30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: pumpkin protein balls, no-bake snack, healthy pumpkin snacks, protein snacks, fall recipes, quick protein bites, gluten-free snacks, vegetarian protein balls