These Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty treat packed with goodness! With a blend of pumpkin, oats, and chocolate, they’re super easy to make and perfect for snacks.
Seriously, they’re like little bites of joy. I like to keep a stash in the fridge for when that snack attack hits. Plus, who can say no to chocolate? 😋
Making these is a breeze! Just mix, roll, and chill. They’re not only yummy but also give a nice boost of energy for busy days ahead.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These provide texture and whole grains. If you’re gluten-free, look for certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats can be a substitute but might make the texture a bit softer.
Pumpkin Puree: Adds flavor and moisture. If it’s not pumpkin season, sweet potato puree works as a perfect alternative for a similar taste and nutritional profile.
Nut Butter: Almond butter is my favorite for its rich taste, but peanut or cashew butter works too. If you’re nut-free, try sunflower seed butter!
Protein Powder: I use vanilla-flavored for added sweetness. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it, but keep in mind they won’t have the same protein boost. A non-dairy protein powder is great for vegans.
Sweetener: Honey provides a nice taste, but if you’re vegan, maple syrup is an excellent alternative. Adjust the quantity based on your sweetness preference!
How Do I Make Sure My Protein Balls Hold Together?
Getting the mix to stick is key in this recipe. Here are some tips to ensure your protein balls hold together perfectly:
- Mix thoroughly: Ensure that the oats, nut butter, and liquids are combined well. The mixture should be sticky!
- Adjust moisture: If your dough is too wet, add more oats or protein powder. If it’s too dry, add a bit more pumpkin puree or nut butter.
- Chill: Refrigerating them for at least 30 minutes helps them firm up, making them easier to handle.
- Roll evenly: When forming the balls, make sure to roll them tightly to ensure they don’t fall apart.
With these tricks, you’ll create delicious, perfectly shaped protein balls that hold together well!
How to Make Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut butter)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon with a pinch of nutmeg and ginger)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In total, you’ll need about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and healthy snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Combine the rolled oats, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Stir everything well so the dry ingredients are nicely mixed together.
2. Add Wet Ingredients:
Next, add the pumpkin puree, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract to your bowl of dry ingredients. Mix them together until everything is combined into a sticky dough.
3. Adjust the Mixture:
If your dough is too wet, sprinkle in a bit more oats or protein powder. If it feels too dry, add a splash of pumpkin puree or nut butter to get it just right. It should be sticky but not too gooey.
4. Fold in Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. Reserve a few for decorating the tops of your protein balls!
5. Shape the Balls:
Scoop out small portions of the dough (about 1 inch in diameter) and roll them between your palms to create bite-sized balls. They should be nice and round!
6. Add a Chocolate Chip Topper:
Take the saved chocolate chips and press a couple into the top of each ball. This not only looks great but adds even more chocolatey goodness!
7. Chill Out!
Place the protein balls on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper. Pop them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let them set. This helps them hold their shape.
8. Store and Enjoy:
Once they’re firm, store your pumpkin protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Enjoy these healthy, pumpkin-spiced bites whenever you need a quick energy boost!
Can I Use Different Nut Butters?
Absolutely! While almond butter is delicious, you can easily substitute it with peanut butter, sunflower seed butter, or any nut butter you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly depending on your choice!
What If I Don’t Have Protein Powder?
No worries! You can omit the protein powder and still enjoy these protein balls, but they may not be as filling. If you like, you can add an extra 1/4 cup of oats to help maintain the texture.
How Long Do They Last In The Fridge or Freezer?
These protein balls can be stored in the fridge for up to one week in an airtight container. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge before enjoying!
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Yes! Feel free to add chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even seeds for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the other ingredients slightly if you add a lot of additional mix-ins to keep the dough’s consistency. Enjoy customizing!
