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Pumpkin Protein Balls Recipe

Pumpkin Protein Balls Recipe

4.8 from 15 reviews

These Pumpkin Protein Balls are a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make snack combining the flavors of fall spices with protein-rich ingredients. Perfect for a quick energy boost, these no-bake bites are packed with pumpkin puree, nut butter, oats, and protein powder, with optional mix-ins like chocolate chips and nuts for added texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1/2 cup nut butter (almond, peanut, or cashew)
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (or honey)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder (plant-based or whey)
  • 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats, divided (use 1 cup inside the dough or 3/4 cup inside + 1/4 cup for coating)

Optional Mix-ins

  • 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips
  • 1 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds
  • 2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions

  1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the canned pumpkin, nut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well-blended, creating a creamy base for your protein balls.
  2. Add Dry Ingredients: Add the protein powder and pumpkin pie spice to the bowl and stir until fully incorporated, forming a thick and cohesive dough.
  3. Fold in Oats: Mix in 1 cup of rolled oats, or use 3/4 cup if reserving 1/4 cup for coating. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky but firm enough to roll. If the mixture feels too soft, add an extra tablespoon of oats or protein powder to firm it up.
  4. Mix in Extras: Stir in any optional mix-ins such as mini chocolate chips, chia seeds or flaxseeds, and chopped nuts to customize flavor and texture to your preference.
  5. Roll into Balls: Scoop about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of dough per ball and roll between your palms to form a smooth ball. If reserving oats for coating, roll each ball in the remaining 1/4 cup oats until coated evenly.
  6. Chill: Place the rolled balls on a parchment-lined plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up. Once chilled, store the balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.

Notes

  • You can customize the nut butter and protein powder types based on dietary preferences or allergies.
  • If the dough is too sticky, add more oats or protein powder one tablespoon at a time.
  • These protein balls are great as a quick breakfast, post-workout snack, or healthy dessert.
  • For a vegan version, use plant-based protein powder and maple syrup instead of honey.
  • Store in the fridge for up to one week or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin protein balls, healthy snack, no bake protein balls, pumpkin snack, high protein snack, autumn snack