Pumpkin Protein Balls
Pumpkin Protein Balls are nutritious, easy-to-make snacks combining natural pumpkin sweetness with protein and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a quick energy boost, these no-bake bites offer a balanced mix of flavor, texture, and nutrition, suitable for all lifestyles and dietary preferences.
- Author: James
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 20-24 balls 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup protein powder (whey, pea, rice, or collagen)
- 1 cup rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
- 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or sunflower seed butter for nut-free)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp dried cranberries or raisins
- Pinch of nutmeg or ginger
- 1 tbsp spirulina or matcha powder
- Gather and measure ingredients: Assemble all ingredients on a clean workspace and measure carefully to ensure balanced flavor and texture.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, nut butter, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Add dry ingredients: Gradually add protein powder, rolled oats, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and optional chia or flaxseeds. Stir thoroughly to distribute evenly without clumps.
- Incorporate extras: Fold in dark chocolate chips, dried fruit, or any chosen extras, mixing gently to maintain dough texture.
- Chill and roll: Refrigerate the mixture for about 10 minutes to firm up. Then scoop and roll into bite-sized balls with your hands.
- Final touches: Optionally, roll the balls in cocoa powder, crushed nuts, or shredded coconut before serving or storing.
Notes
- Customize protein powder based on dietary preference (whey, pea, rice, collagen).
- Adjust moisture by adding more oats if too wet, or almond milk/pumpkin if too dry.
- Chill mixture before rolling to prevent sticking and maintain shape.
- Use parchment paper when chilling or storing for easy cleanup and to avoid sticking.
- Make small, bite-sized balls for better portion control and quicker chilling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls (approx. 30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: pumpkin protein balls, healthy snack, no bake, gluten-free, vegan option, high protein, energy bites, pumpkin snacks, healthy protein balls