These Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty and healthy snack! They’re packed with flavors from pumpkin and sweet chocolate chips, making them hard to resist.
Rolling them up is a fun way to get kids involved in the kitchen. I love grabbing a few for a quick boost of energy—perfect for when I need a little pick-me-up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats provide a great texture and are packed with nutrients. If you’re gluten-free, ensure you choose certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats can also work, though they may make a slightly softer ball.
Pumpkin Puree: Using canned pumpkin puree is convenient, but fresh pumpkin can also be used. Just make sure to cook and puree it fine. For a different flavor, sweet potato puree makes a tasty substitute!
Nut Butter: Peanut butter is my go-to, but almond or sunflower seed butter could work too. If you need it nut-free, go for sunflower seed butter, which is tasty and safe for those with nut allergies.
Sweetener: Honey adds a nice flavor, but maple syrup is a great vegan option. You can also use agave nectar, or for lower sugar, consider using a sugar-free syrup or a sweetener of your choice.
Protein Powder: Vanilla protein powder gives a nice flavor. If you don’t have any, you can omit this and add a bit more oats, or use any flavor you like that complements the pumpkin.
How Do I Make Sure My Protein Balls Are Not Too Sticky?
Getting the right consistency is key when making protein balls. If your mixture feels too sticky, don’t worry! Here are some tips:
- Add a bit more oats or protein powder to the mix. This will help absorb some moisture.
- Chilling the mixture before rolling helps firm it up, making it easier to handle.
- Using slightly damp hands can also help when forming the balls, preventing the mixture from sticking to your hands too much.
Don’t hesitate to adjust based on the texture; your own change might become your new favorite method!
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter or any nut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips
- A pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In no time, you’ll have a healthy snack ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Use a spoon or spatula to mix them together well.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Next, add the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract to the dry mix. Stir everything together until you get a sticky dough. It should come together nicely!
3. Fold in the Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This adds a delightful chocolatey taste to your protein balls!
4. Shape the Protein Balls:
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in size. Place them on a parchment-lined tray or plate.
5. Chill and Firm Up:
Pop the tray with the balls into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to eat.
6. Store and Enjoy:
Once they’re chilled, transfer the protein balls to an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to one week. Enjoy them as a nutritious snack whenever you need a little energy boost!
Can I Use Different Types of Nut Butter?
Absolutely! While peanut butter is delicious, you can also use almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version. Just keep in mind that different nut butters may alter the flavor slightly!
How Should I Store These Protein Balls?
Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just make sure to separate them with parchment paper so they don’t stick together!
Can I Make These Protein Balls Vegan?
Yes! Simply replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep the recipe vegan. All other ingredients are already plant-based!
What If My Mixture Is Too Dry?
If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more pumpkin puree or a splash of water to help it come together. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in some extra oats or protein powder to balance it out.