Go Back
Pumpkin Protein Balls

Pumpkin Protein Balls

These Pumpkin Protein Balls are a delightful, no-bake treat packed with nutrients, offering a guilt-free indulgence perfect for busy days or post-workout refueling. This recipe is incredibly useful for anyone seeking a quick, healthy snack option that satisfies sweet cravings without the sugar crash.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup rolled oats gluten-free if preferred
  • 1/2 cup protein powder vanilla or unflavored works best
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin puree unsweetened, not pumpkin pie filling
  • 1/4 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter, cashew butter
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds optional, for added nutrients
  • Pinch salt

Equipment

  • medium-sized mixing bowl
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Microwave (optional, for peanut butter)
  • Plastic wrap or lid
  • Airtight container

Method
 

  1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, chia seeds (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir these dry ingredients together thoroughly to ensure they are evenly distributed. This helps to prevent clumping of the protein powder.
    1 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup protein powder, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, Pinch salt
  2. To the bowl with the dry ingredients, add the pumpkin puree, natural peanut butter, and honey or maple syrup. If your peanut butter is very stiff, you might want to warm it slightly in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to make it more spreadable and easier to mix.
    1/2 cup pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup natural peanut butter, 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  3. Using a sturdy spoon or a spatula, begin to mix all the ingredients together. Continue mixing until a thick, cohesive dough-like mixture forms. It might seem a bit sticky at first, but keep stirring until everything is well incorporated. If the mixture seems too dry and crumbly, you can add another tablespoon of pumpkin puree or a tiny drizzle of honey/maple syrup. If it's too wet and sticky, add another tablespoon of oats or protein powder.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial as it allows the oats to absorb some of the moisture, making it easier to handle and roll into balls.
  5. Once chilled, scoop out about one tablespoon of the mixture at a time. Roll the mixture between your palms to form small, compact balls, roughly 1-inch in diameter. If the mixture is sticking to your hands, you can lightly dampen your hands with water or a tiny bit of oil.
  6. Your Pumpkin Protein Balls are ready to be enjoyed! You can eat them immediately after rolling. For optimal taste and texture, it's recommended to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
QR Code linking back to recipe