Oatmeal Pumpkin Protein Balls are tasty little snacks packed with goodness! They combine hearty oats, creamy pumpkin, and a boost of protein to keep you fueled and satisfied.
Making these is as easy as pie—literally! Just mix your ingredients, roll them into balls, and enjoy! I love grabbing one for a quick snack when the sweet tooth hits. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These provide the base for the protein balls and add fiber. If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats work too. Just be careful as they may make the texture slightly softer.
Pumpkin Puree: Unsweetened canned pumpkin is the best for these. If you want to use fresh pumpkin, roast it and blend until smooth. Sweet potato puree is a great substitute as well!
Protein Powder: You can use whey, casein, or plant-based protein. If you don’t keep protein powder on hand, you could simply add an extra 1/2 cup of oats and adjust the liquid slightly.
Nut Butter: Almond butter and peanut butter work just fine, but feel free to swap in sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. I personally love the smoothness of almond butter for these, but use what you love.
Sweetener: Maple syrup adds a lovely flavor, but honey or agave syrup are great alternatives. For lower sugar, consider using a sugar-free syrup!
How Do I Get the Right Consistency for the Mixture?
Getting the mixture just right is key to rolling perfect balls. It should be sticky but manageable. Here’s how to nail that consistency:
- Start by mixing dry ingredients first, then add wet ingredients little by little.
- Mix well; if it feels too wet, add extra oats or protein powder incrementally!
- If it feels too crumbly or dry, gradually add a bit more pumpkin or nut butter until it binds well.
- Don’t worry if you need to adjust! It’s all about achieving a texture that sticks together without falling apart.
How to Make Oatmeal Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 1/4 cup natural almond butter or peanut butter
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger)
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (optional)
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or raisins (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. A total of around 45 minutes and you’ll have yummy, healthy snacks ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add your rolled oats, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Stir them together until well combined. This helps ensure even flavor throughout your protein balls.
2. Add Wet Ingredients:
Next, pour in the canned pumpkin puree, almond butter (or peanut butter), and maple syrup (or honey). Using a spatula or wooden spoon, mix everything well until it becomes sticky and holds together. If you find the mixture is too wet, sprinkle in a bit more oats or protein powder. Conversely, if it’s too dry, a little more pumpkin or nut butter will help!
3. Fold in Extra Goodness:
If you’re using pumpkin seeds and chocolate chips or raisins, gently fold them into the mixture. This adds great texture and extra flavor to your protein balls! Don’t skip this step; it’s what makes them fun and delicious!
4. Roll Into Balls:
Now comes the fun part! Using your hands, take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. If your hands get too sticky, you can dampen them slightly with water for easier rolling.
5. Chill and Firm Up:
After rolling all the balls, place them on a baking sheet or a plate. Pop them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps them firm up, making them easier to handle when you’re ready to eat!
6. Store Your Protein Balls:
Once chilled and firm, transfer your protein balls to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to a week, or you can freeze them for longer storage. Just grab one when you need a nutritious snack!
Enjoy your nutrient-packed, chewy, and tasty Oatmeal Pumpkin Protein Balls as a healthy snack or a perfect post-workout boost!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, simply roast it until soft, mash it, and then measure out 1/2 cup. Just be sure it’s well-pureed to match the consistency of canned pumpkin.
Can I Make These Gluten-Free?
Yes! Just ensure you use certified gluten-free oats and check that your protein powder is also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy these protein balls without any gluten worries!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep your Oatmeal Pumpkin Protein Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just let them thaw a bit before enjoying!
Can I Customize the Add-Ins?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. You can use chopped walnuts, sunflower seeds, or even shredded coconut for added texture and flavor!
