These Oatmeal Pumpkin Protein Balls are a wholesome treat that’s easy to grab on the go. Made with oats, pumpkin puree, and nut butter, they pack a tasty punch of energy!
They’re like little bites of autumn, perfect for snack time. I love having them after a workout or as a quick pick-me-up. Plus, they’re fun to make and even better to eat! 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These provide the base and texture. Quick oats can be used in a pinch, but rolled oats give a heartier bite. For a gluten-free option, look for oats labeled gluten-free.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree is super convenient and consistent, but you can also use homemade pumpkin puree if you prefer. Just make sure it’s smooth. It adds moisture and flavor!
Nut Butter: I usually go for peanut butter, but almond butter is a great alternative if you’re looking for a milder flavor or have allergies. Sunflower seed butter can also be used for nut-free diets.
Sweetener: Honey gives a lovely richness, but maple syrup is perfect for a vegan option. Agave syrup works well too for a low-glycemic option!
Protein Powder: Adding protein powder boosts the nutritional value. If you don’t have any on hand, you can skip it or replace it with additional oats for a thicker texture.
Spices: Pumpkin pie spice is traditional, but using cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves gives a customizable spice blend. Feel free to adjust based on your taste!
How Do I Make Sure My Protein Balls Hold Together?
It can be tricky to get the right consistency for protein balls, so follow these tips to ensure they hold together:
- After mixing all the ingredients, if the mixture feels too dry, add a splash of nut milk or extra pumpkin puree to bind it.
- Chilling the mixture is key! It helps the fats solidify and makes it easier to roll.
- Once shaped into balls, refrigerate them again. This additional chill helps them firm up.
If your mixture feels too wet, add more oats or a bit of protein powder until it’s just right. Enjoy your energy-boosting snacks!
How to Make Oatmeal Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (optional for extra protein)
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time, plus an additional 1.5 hours to chill. You’ll spend those first 10 minutes mixing everything up; then let the mixture cool in the fridge so you can roll it into balls. Easy-peasy and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, nut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Use a spoon or spatula to stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This will form the creamy base of your protein balls!
2. Add the Dry Ingredients:
To the bowl, add in the rolled oats, protein powder (if you want that extra protein boost), pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. Make sure no dry oats are left visible—everything should be well coated!
3. Fold in Extras:
If you like a little crunch or sweetness, fold in the chopped nuts or chocolate chips. This step is completely optional but adds great texture and flavor!
4. Chill the Mixture:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will help the mixture firm up, making it easier to roll into balls.
5. Shape the Balls:
Once the mixture is chilled, use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to portion out the mixture. Roll each scoop between your palms to form nice, round balls. They can be as big or small as you prefer, but smaller is often easier to snack on.
6. Set in the Fridge:
Place the rolled balls on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate them again for at least 1 hour. This helps them firm up even more so they hold their shape.
7. Store and Enjoy:
Once they’re set, transfer the oatmeal pumpkin protein balls to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They make a fantastic, nutritious snack whenever you’re feeling hungry! Enjoy your homemade treats!
This recipe yields about 12-15 protein balls, depending on how big you roll them. Perfect for a healthy energy boost with delightful pumpkin spice flavor!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can substitute instant oats for rolled oats, but keep in mind that the texture will be softer. Rolled oats provide a chewier bite, which many prefer in protein balls. If using instant oats, reduce the chilling time slightly if the mixture seems too wet.
How Do I Store These Protein Balls?
Store the oatmeal pumpkin protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to a week, making them perfect for meal prep!
Can I Freeze Oatmeal Pumpkin Protein Balls?
Absolutely! You can freeze the protein balls for longer storage. Just place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw them in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy!
What Can I Substitute for Peanut Butter?
If you’d like to avoid peanut butter, try almond butter or sunflower seed butter as great alternatives. They will give a similar creamy texture and flavor. Just check for allergies and personal preferences!
