Looking for a nutritious, easy-to-make snack that's perfect for on-the-go? These Pumpkin Protein Balls are your answer! With a blend of oats, pumpkin, almond butter, and protein powder, these no-bake treats are both filling and naturally sweetened. They're perfect for satisfying your cravings while keeping you fueled throughout the day. Plus, they’re vegan and gluten-free friendly!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Pumpkin Protein Balls are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! They provide a great balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making them an ideal snack to keep you energized. The pumpkin puree adds a cozy fall flavor, while the almond butter gives them a creamy texture. Whether you're hitting the gym or need a midday snack, these protein balls are a satisfying, wholesome choice. The best part? They're no-bake and can be prepped in minutes, making them a convenient and versatile snack for any time of the day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free, if needed)
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ½ cup almond butter
- ⅓ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup raw honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, almond butter, pumpkin puree, and raw honey (or maple syrup). Stir until the ingredients are fully combined.
- Using a small cookie scoop, portion out approximately 22-24 small balls. Roll each portion between your hands to form smooth balls.
- Place the protein balls on a plate or baking sheet and freeze for 10 minutes to set.
- Once set, transfer the protein balls to an airtight container for storage.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 22 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute
- Freezing Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Kcal: 65 kcal per serving
Variations
- Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey to make these Pumpkin Protein Balls vegan-friendly.
- Nut-Free: Swap the almond butter for sunflower seed butter or another nut-free butter to make these suitable for those with nut allergies.
- Spiced Up: If you love a little more spice, increase the amount of pumpkin pie spice or add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg for an extra kick.
- Sweeteners: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add a few extra tablespoons of maple syrup or honey, depending on your taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store your protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, place them in the freezer, where they’ll last up to 1 month.
- Reheating: These protein balls are meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. There’s no need to reheat them, making them a convenient snack option for when you're on the go.
FAQs
1. Can I use other nut butters besides almond butter?
Yes, you can substitute almond butter with peanut butter, cashew butter, or any other nut butter of your choice.
2. Are these Pumpkin Protein Balls gluten-free?
Yes, these protein balls are gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free rolled oats.
3. Can I make these Pumpkin Protein Balls without protein powder?
Yes, you can omit the protein powder, but the balls will have less protein content. You might want to add additional oats or a different type of protein, like hemp seeds, to compensate.
4. Can I make these protein balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! These Pumpkin Protein Balls can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for convenience.
5. Can I use canned pumpkin for the puree?
Yes, canned pumpkin works perfectly fine for this recipe. Just ensure it’s pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices.
6. How many Pumpkin Protein Balls can I eat in a day?
Each serving is about one ball, and these are a great snack to keep your energy up. You can enjoy a couple of them a day, but it’s important to balance them with other foods for a well-rounded diet.
7. Can I freeze these protein balls?
Yes, they freeze very well! Place them in a container and store them in the freezer for up to a month.
8. What can I use instead of honey?
You can substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan version or use agave syrup, brown rice syrup, or any liquid sweetener you prefer.
9. Are these protein balls suitable for kids?
Yes, these protein balls are great for kids as a healthy snack, just be sure to adjust the sweetness if necessary.
10. Can I use flavored protein powder?
You can, but vanilla works best for this recipe. Flavored protein powders (such as chocolate) might alter the taste of the pumpkin balls.
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Protein Balls are the perfect balance of health and flavor in a quick, no-bake snack. Whether you need a boost before a workout or a nutritious midday treat, these protein balls will satisfy your hunger and keep you feeling great. With minimal prep time and endless variations, this recipe is sure to become a go-to snack for your busy days. Enjoy the delicious, nutritious benefits of pumpkin and protein today!
