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Pumpkin Protein Balls

Pumpkin Protein Balls

Pumpkin Protein Balls are an easy, quick, and nutritious snack combining natural pumpkin sweetness with protein, oats, nut butter, and warming spices. Perfect for boosting energy during busy days, post-workout, or as a wholesome treat, these no-bake bites are versatile, flavorful, and made with clean, all-natural ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup oats
  • 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (chilled)
  • 1/3 cup nut butter (or sunflower seed butter for nut-free option)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup

Optional Variations

  • 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips (for chocolate lover’s version)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger or cloves (for spiced up version)
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts or seeds (for extra crunch)
  • 1 tablespoon spirulina or matcha powder (for green boost)

Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the oats, protein powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and chia seeds thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together pumpkin puree, nut butter, and maple syrup until smooth and well combined.
  3. Bring It All Together: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until the dough forms a sticky but manageable consistency perfect for rolling. If too sticky, add more oats; if too dry, add a bit more pumpkin puree or nut butter.
  4. Shape the Balls: Use your hands or a cookie scoop to scoop and roll the mixture into bite-sized balls approximately one inch in diameter, making sure they are uniformly sized.
  5. Chill and Set: Place the pumpkin protein balls on a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up before enjoying.

Notes

  • Use cold pumpkin puree to help the mixture hold together better.
  • Adjust sweetness by tasting the dough before shaping and adding more maple syrup if desired.
  • Do not overmix the dough to maintain a tender texture.
  • If the mixture is too sticky, add extra oats; if too dry, increase pumpkin puree or nut butter slightly.
  • Use a cookie scoop for even-sized balls for consistent chilling and storage.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • Freeze individually on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months storage.
  • Let frozen balls thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before eating; no reheating needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pumpkin, Protein Balls, Healthy Snack, No Bake, Gluten Free, Vegan, Energy Bite, Nutritious Snack