These Almond Butter Pumpkin Protein Balls are fun and healthy snacks! Packed with pumpkin flavor and the nutty goodness of almond butter, they’re perfect for a quick bite.
Honestly, I love making these when I need a little energy boost. They’re super easy to whip up and taste like fall in a ball! 🎃 Just roll, chill, and enjoy your tasty treats!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These give the protein balls structure and a nice chew. Quick oats work too, but if you want a gluten-free version, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.
Almond Butter: It adds creaminess and healthy fats. If you have a nut allergy, sun butter or tahini can be great alternatives.
Pumpkin Puree: I love using canned pumpkin for convenience, but fresh puree is equally delicious. You’ll get a richer flavor if it’s home-roasted.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both sweeteners work well, but honey adds a slight floral note. For a vegan option, stick with maple syrup.
Protein Powder: Vanilla protein powder gives extra flavor. If preferred, you can use chocolate protein for a different twist, just adjust the sweetener accordingly.
How Can I Make Sure My Protein Balls Hold Together?
Getting the right texture is key to delicious protein balls. Start by ensuring you mix your wet and dry ingredients thoroughly. If the mixture feels crumbly, don’t worry! Add a bit more almond butter or pumpkin until it feels sticky enough to hold together.
- Use damp hands when rolling to prevent sticking.
- Refrigerate the balls for at least 30 minutes; this helps them firm up nicely.
- If you want, you can also roll them in a bit of shredded coconut or crushed nuts for an added touch!
Almond Butter Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time to mix everything and form the balls. After prepping, refrigerate the protein balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up. In total, plan for around 40 minutes before you can enjoy these delicious snacks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Your Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until all the dry ingredients are evenly mixed together.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the almond butter, pumpkin puree, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix everything together really well! You want to use your hands or a spatula to form a sticky dough. If it feels too dry, just add a teaspoon or two of water or more pumpkin puree until the right consistency is achieved.
4. Roll Into Balls:
Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the dough and roll them into bite-sized balls. Make them whatever size you prefer, but small to medium bites usually work best!
5. Chill the Balls:
Place the rolled balls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Put them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.
6. Enjoy and Store:
Once chilled, your scrumptious protein balls are ready to eat! Enjoy them as a quick snack for an energy boost, and be sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
These almond butter pumpkin protein balls are not only delicious but also packed with nutrition, making them a perfect on-the-go snack!
Can I Use Another Nut Butter Instead of Almond Butter?
Absolutely! You can swap almond butter for peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter. Just keep in mind that using a different nut butter may slightly change the flavor, but all options will work well!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned Pumpkin?
Yes, fresh pumpkin is a great alternative! Just make sure to roast it and blend it until smooth before using. It may take a bit more time, but the flavor can be more vibrant!
How Long Do These Protein Balls Last in the Fridge?
These protein balls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them for up to three months—just thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!
Can I Make These Protein Balls Vegan?
Yes! Simply replace honey with maple syrup for a fully vegan snack, and make sure to use a plant-based protein powder. They’ll still be delicious and nutritious!
