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Pumpkin Protein Balls

Pumpkin Protein Balls
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Pumpkin Protein Balls are a quick, delicious, and wholesome snack packed with pumpkin’s natural sweetness, protein-rich ingredients, and warming spices. Perfectly portable and easy to make with no baking required, they provide steady energy and curb hunger cravings for on-the-go fueling or a satisfying snack any time of day.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup protein powder (whey, pea, or collagen)
  • 1/2 cup nut butter (or sunflower seed butter for nut-free)
  • 3/4 cup oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
  • 1 tbsp chia seeds or flax seeds
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/8 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips or nuts (walnuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds)
  • 1 tbsp spirulina or matcha powder (for superfood boost)
  • Cacao nibs or mini dark chocolate chips for chocolate twist

Instructions

  1. Mix the Wet Ingredients: Combine the pumpkin puree, nut butter, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl until smooth and well blended.
  2. Add the Dry Ingredients: Add oats, protein powder, chia or flax seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to the wet mixture. Stir well until the mixture forms a slightly sticky dough.
  3. Incorporate Optional Extras: Gently fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or pumpkin seeds if using, making sure they are evenly distributed without breaking the texture.
  4. Shape the Balls: Scoop out small portions of the mixture using a spoon or your hands and roll into bite-sized balls. If the dough feels too wet, chill it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm up.
  5. Chill and Set: Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until firm and ready to serve.

Notes

  • Use thick pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to avoid added sugars and unwanted flavors.
  • If the mixture is too sticky, add more oats; if too dry, add a splash of almond milk or more nut butter.
  • Chill or wet your hands before rolling the balls to prevent sticking.
  • Choose a good-quality protein powder for the best flavor and texture.
  • Store finished protein balls in airtight containers in the fridge for up to one week.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin protein balls, healthy snack, no bake protein balls, pumpkin snacks, energy bites, gluten-free snack

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/pumpkin-protein-balls/