These Pumpkin Protein Snowball Bites are yummy little treats packed with protein and pumpkin goodness! They are soft, sweet, and perfect for a quick snack.
Plus, they are super easy to make – just mix, roll, and enjoy! I often keep a batch on hand for when the snack attacks hit! 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: This is the backbone of our bites. They provide texture and fiber. If you need gluten-free options, look for certified gluten-free oats instead!
Pumpkin Puree: You can use canned pumpkin for convenience, or mash fresh pumpkin if you have it. Both work well. If you want a different flavor, try swapping pumpkin for sweet potato puree!
Protein Powder: Vanilla protein gives a lovely flavor, but feel free to use unflavored protein powder or plant-based options like pea or hemp if you prefer. Just be cautious about flavor adjustments!
Nut Butter: I often use almond butter, but peanut butter is just as tasty! If you have nut allergies, sunflower seed butter works beautifully as a substitute.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Either sweetener adds a nice touch. If you want a lower-calorie option, try sugar-free syrup or a few drops of stevia.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture in Your Bites?
Achieving the right consistency is key for these bites. It all comes down to mixing and adjusting moisture levels to get that light and fluffy texture.
- Start with combining all dry ingredients first before adding wet ones. This ensures even mixing!
- When adding pumpkin puree and nut butter, mix until everything is fully incorporated. If the mixture feels too dry, add more pumpkin or a splash of milk gradually.
- Chilling the bites is crucial. It helps them firm up, so don’t skip the fridge time!
How to Make Pumpkin Protein Snowball Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 2 tbsp almond butter or peanut butter
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut or finely rolled oats (for coating)
- Optional glaze:
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar or coconut sugar
- 1-2 tbsp milk or dairy-free milk
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes—quick and simple for a delicious snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Mix these dry ingredients together until they are well-blended.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Next, add the pumpkin puree, almond butter, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix everything thoroughly until you have a thick, sticky dough. If it feels a bit dry and crumbly, just add a little more pumpkin puree or a splash of milk to get it to the right consistency.
3. Shape the Bites:
Now, take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into bite-sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. They don’t have to be perfect; just aim for something you can pop in your mouth!
4. Coat the Bites:
Roll each ball in shredded coconut or finely rolled oats to coat them. This gives them that lovely “snowball” look and adds a nice texture. Set all the coated balls on a tray or plate.
5. Make the Optional Glaze:
If you’re feeling fancy, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this over your snowball bites for an extra touch of sweetness and decoration.
6. Chill:
Refrigerate the bites for at least 30 minutes to let them set up. This will help them hold their shape and enhance the flavors!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, these Pumpkin Protein Snowball Bites are ready to serve! Enjoy them as a nutritious snack any time of the day, especially during fall!
These treats are not only soft and moist but also filled with cozy pumpkin and spice flavors. Perfect for when you’re looking for something delicious and healthy!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats in a pinch! They will give a softer texture, so if you prefer a bit more chewiness, rolled oats are the way to go.
How Long Do These Bites Last in the Fridge?
Store the bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They make for a fantastic grab-and-go snack throughout the week!
Can I Freeze These Pumpkin Protein Bites?
Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before munching.
What Can I Substitute for Pumpkin Puree?
If you don’t have pumpkin puree, sweet potato puree is a great alternative! You could also try applesauce, but it may change the flavor slightly and requires careful adjustments to the amount of other liquids in the recipe.
