These Pumpkin Oat Protein Balls are a tasty treat packed with pumpkin, oats, and a boost of protein. They’re healthy, easy to make, and perfect for a quick snack!
They’re so fun to whip up! Just mix everything, roll them into balls, and you’re set. I love taking them on the go or enjoying with a warm drink! ☕️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are the base for our protein balls, providing texture and fiber. If you only have quick oats, they will work too, but may give a slightly different texture.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin is super convenient and consistent in flavor. If you choose fresh pumpkin, make sure to cook and puree it well. For a twist, try using sweet potato puree!
Nut Butter: Almond butter is my go-to for a creamy texture, but peanut butter or sunflower seed butter are great alternatives. You could also use a seed butter for a nut-free version.
Sweetener: Honey adds a lovely sweetness, but if you prefer a vegan option, maple syrup is a perfect substitute. Agave syrup also works well if you have it on hand.
Protein Powder: Use any flavor you like! If you want to skip it altogether, you can add additional oats or ground flaxseed for more nutrition.
How Do I Make Sure My Pumpkin Oat Protein Balls Hold Their Shape?
Getting the right consistency is key to perfectly formed protein balls. To ensure they hold together well, follow these tips:
- Make sure your nut butter is nice and creamy; this helps bind the ingredients together.
- Don’t skip the cooling step! Refrigerating the balls helps solidify them, so they firm up nicely.
- If your mixture seems too dry, try adding a splash of water or a little extra nut butter to help it stick together.
- Roll them tightly! The firmer you roll, the better they’ll hold their shape. Don’t worry—these are supposed to be bite-sized!
How to Make Pumpkin Oat Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup natural nut butter (such as almond or peanut butter)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 scoop vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
Making these Pumpkin Oat Protein Balls will take about 15 minutes for prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes for chilling. So you’ll be enjoying this delicious snack in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix them together well so that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the oats.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, nut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until it’s smooth and creamy. This step will create a nice, flavorful base for your protein balls.
3. Combine and Form the Mixture:
Now, pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix everything together thoroughly until it forms a sticky dough. If you’re using them, fold in the raisins or dried cranberries for an extra sweet touch!
4. Shape the Balls:
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them onto a plate or baking sheet. It’s a simple process, and you can make them as big or small as you like—just keep them bite-sized!
5. Chill to Firm Up:
Place the plate or baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill the protein balls for at least 30 minutes. This will help them hold their shape better.
6. Storage:
Once they’re set, store the pumpkin oat protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll last up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage if you want to enjoy them later!
These no-bake protein balls are not just healthy but also full of delicious fall flavors. They make for a perfect on-the-go snack or a nutritious treat anytime! Enjoy!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Oats in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to choose certified gluten-free rolled oats if you need the recipe to be gluten-free. They work just as well, maintaining the same texture and taste!
How Long Do These Protein Balls Last?
These pumpkin oat protein balls can last up to one week in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. If you want to store them longer, they freeze well for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!
What Can I Use Instead of Protein Powder?
If you don’t have protein powder or prefer not to use it, you can simply add more rolled oats to the recipe or substitute with ground flaxseed for some added nutrition. Keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly, but they’ll still taste great!
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your protein balls by adding nuts, seeds, or even chocolate chips. Just be mindful of the overall consistency and adjust the wet ingredients if needed to keep the mixture cohesive.
