These Pumpkin Protein Snowball Bites are cute little snacks packed with flavor and health! With pumpkin, oats, and a hint of spice, they’re perfect for a quick energy boost.
I love tossing them in my bag for a tasty treat on the go. Plus, who can resist a pumpkin snack, especially when they look like little snowballs? ❄️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Canned Pumpkin Puree: Always choose pure pumpkin puree here; it has a rich flavor. If fresh pumpkin is available, you can roast and puree it instead, but canned is so much easier!
Rolled Oats: These are great for texture. If you need a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats can also be used but may alter the texture slightly.
Protein Powder: I love using vanilla protein powder for added flavor. If you’re sensitive to protein powders, consider using a whole food source like ground seeds or nut flour as a substitute.
Nut Butter: Almond, peanut, or cashew butter are delicious! If you want to avoid nuts, sunflower seed butter is a good option and adds a unique taste.
Maple Syrup/Honey: Both add sweetness, but if you’re vegan, stick with maple syrup. For a lower calorie option, agave or coconut sugar could work well too.
Flaxseed Meal: This adds fiber and healthy fats. If you’re out of it, chia seeds are a perfect substitute! Just grind them down a bit if you prefer a finer texture.
How Do I Get My Snowball Bites to Stick Together?
A common issue with recipes like this is ensuring the mixture holds together well. The moisture levels play a key role here! Start by mixing your wet ingredients properly to ensure everything blends well.
- After adding the dry ingredients, check the consistency. It should be a bit sticky but moldable. If it’s too dry, gradually add milk until it’s the right texture.
- Rolling the bites tightly in your palms will also help. If they’re crumbly after rolling, don’t hesitate to add a little more nut butter or moisture.
- Make sure to chill the bites for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape.
Delicious Pumpkin Protein Snowball Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder (plant-based or whey)
- 1/4 cup nut butter (almond, peanut, or cashew)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1/4 cup flaxseed meal or ground chia seeds
- 1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut (plus extra for rolling)
- 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips or dried cranberries (optional)
- 2-3 tbsp plant-based or regular milk (as needed)
For the Drizzle:
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar or coconut sugar
- 1-2 tbsp milk or plant-based milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to chill and firm up. With a little patience, you’ll have a delicious snack ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, nut butter, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract if you’re using it. Mix until everything is smooth and well blended.
2. Add the Dry Ingredients:
Next, stir in the rolled oats, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, flaxseed meal, shredded coconut, and any optional chocolate chips or cranberries. Mix everything well until it’s combined. It should have a thick, sticky consistency.
3. Adjust Consistency:
If the mixture feels too wet and sticky, that’s okay! Gradually add milk, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a dough-like consistency that you can roll into balls without it falling apart.
4. Roll Into Balls:
Scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form a small ball. Then, roll each ball in the extra shredded coconut to give it that snowball look.
5. Chill the Snowballs:
Place your pumpkin snowballs on a baking sheet or tray. Pop them in the refrigerator and let them set for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
6. Make the Drizzle:
While the snowballs are chilling, prepare the drizzle. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until it’s smooth. If you want it thinner, add a little more milk.
7. Drizzle and Serve:
Once the snowballs have chilled and firmed up, take them out of the fridge and drizzle the icing over the top using a spoon or a piping bag. They’re ready to share!
8. Storing Your Treats:
You can enjoy them right away or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They make for a great on-the-go snack!
Enjoy these delightful, protein-packed Pumpkin Protein Snowball Bites for a wholesome treat that fuels your day!
Can I Substitute the Nut Butter?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any nut butter you prefer, such as almond, peanut, or cashew. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter works beautifully!
How Can I Make These Vegan?
To keep the recipe vegan, use maple syrup instead of honey, and ensure your protein powder is plant-based. You can also substitute the dairy milk in the drizzle with almond or oat milk.
Can I Freeze These Snowball Bites?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just place the snowball bites in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge before serving!
What Can I Use Instead of Flaxseed Meal?
If you don’t have flaxseed meal, ground chia seeds are a great alternative. Both provide fiber and help bind the ingredients together. You could also increase the amount of nut butter slightly for more cohesion.
