These Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Protein Balls are the perfect snack! Packed with pumpkin, creamy nut butter, and sweet chocolate chips, they’re tasty and nutritious.
What I love most about them is how easy they are to make. Just mix the ingredients, roll them into balls, and you’re ready to munch. Healthy snacking just got a whole lot yummier!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars and spices. If pumpkin isn’t available, you can use sweet potato puree as a great substitute.
Nut Butter: Almond butter is my favorite for its creamy texture, but peanut butter works well too. If you need a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter can be a fantastic alternative.
Sweetener: Honey adds a lovely flavor, but maple syrup is a great vegan substitute. Adjust the sweetness to your taste; feel free to use less if you prefer less sugar.
Protein Powder: I recommend vanilla for added flavor, but if you have unflavored protein powder, that works too. You can skip it if you want a lower-protein snack.
Chocolate Chips: I use dark chocolate chips for a richer taste, but semi-sweet is always a hit. You can also leave them out or use raisins for a healthier twist.
How Can I Ensure My Protein Balls Hold Their Shape?
It’s important to get the right balance of wet and dry ingredients for these balls to hold together. Follow these tips:
- Use the exact measurement for pumpkin puree. Too much can make the mixture too wet.
- If your dough seems runny, add more oats or protein powder to thicken it.
- Chilling the mixture for an hour is crucial. It helps the balls firm up before you roll them.
With these simple adjustments and techniques, your pumpkin protein balls will be a hit! Enjoy your healthy snack!
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/4 cup natural almond or peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
- 1/4 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts for added texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing these delicious protein balls will take you about 10 minutes, and then you’ll need to refrigerate them for at least 1 hour to firm up. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, almond or peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Use a spoon to stir until everything is smooth and well mixed. This is the base of your delicious protein balls!
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, mix your rolled oats, protein powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and any optional pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts you want to add. Stir them together well so they’re evenly distributed.
3. Create the Dough:
Gradually add your dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring as you go. Keep mixing until you have a sticky dough. If it’s too crumbly, you can add a little extra nut butter or pumpkin puree to help it come together.
4. Add the Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold in the chocolate chips to the dough, ensuring they are evenly spread throughout the mixture. This is what makes these protein balls extra tasty!
5. Shape the Balls:
Using your hands, take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined tray or plate as you go.
6. Chill:
Once all your balls are shaped, place the tray or plate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to eat!
7. Store and Enjoy:
After chilling, store your pumpkin protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage if you have a big batch!
Enjoy your tasty, nutrient-packed Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Protein Balls as a quick snack or energy boost before or after a workout!
Can I Use Canned Pumpkin Puree?
Absolutely! Just make sure to choose pure canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars and spices. It’s super convenient and saves time!
How Can I Make These Protein Balls Vegan?
To make these protein balls vegan, simply use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your protein powder is plant-based. Almond or peanut butter is typically vegan-friendly too!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store your leftover protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months—just thaw them in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Add Other Mix-ins?
Definitely! You can add nuts, seeds, or even dried fruit like cranberries or raisins. Just be mindful of the total volume to ensure the mixture still holds together well. Have fun experimenting!
