These Paleo Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty snack that’s perfect for any time of the day! Made with real pumpkin, protein powder, and nut butter, they’re packed with flavor.
They are super easy to make—just mix, roll, and chill! I love grabbing a couple after my workout. They give me the energy I need without any guilt. Who doesn’t love a healthy treat? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Use regular or gluten-free oats based on your needs. Steel-cut oats can work too, but they need longer soaking time and won’t bind as well. Quick oats are also an option for a faster process.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin is convenient and widely available. If you prefer fresh, roast and puree a sugar pumpkin. Both give a similar taste and texture, but the canned version is generally smoother.
Almond Butter: If allergies are a concern, sunflower seed butter is a great alternative. You’ve got options with cashew or peanut butter too, just be mindful of their flavor effects!
Sweeteners: Use honey for a more floral taste or maple syrup for a deeper sweetness. If you’re vegan, maple syrup is your best bet. Adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference, but start with the recommended amount!
Pumpkin Seeds: These add crunch and nutrition. Substitute with sunflower seeds, chopped nuts, or omit if needed for allergies. All still pack protein.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture for Protein Balls?
The right texture can make or break your protein balls! To achieve a great consistency, balance moisture with dry ingredients. Start with your wet ingredients, and then mix in dry ones slowly. Here’s how to nail it:
- Combine wet ingredients well to create a smooth base. This affects the texture of the entire mixture.
- Gradually add oats and protein powder until the mixture isn’t too dry or sticky. This helps control the final texture.
- Use your hands to roll into balls. If they’re sticky, try chilling the mixture for a while before rolling.
Remember, refrigeration helps set the balls and firm them up for easier handling. If the mixture feels too dry after chilling, a splash of water or additional pumpkin puree can help.
How to Make Paleo Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats (use gluten-free if preferred)
- 3/4 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut/seed butter)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (natural sweetener)
- 1/3 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips (optional, ensure paleo-compliant)
- 1 scoop vanilla or unflavored paleo-friendly protein powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional hour for chilling in the refrigerator. In total, you’ll need around 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy these delicious snacks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, start by combining the pumpkin puree, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Use a spatula or spoon to stir everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be the delicious base for your protein balls!
2. Add the Dry Ingredients:
Next, add in the rolled oats, protein powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are combined and no dry spots remain. The mixture should be thick and sticky.
3. Fold in Mix-Ins:
Now, it’s time to add some crunch and sweetness! Gently fold in the pumpkin seeds and mini dark chocolate chips. You can adjust the amount to your preference or skip the chocolate if you desire a lighter taste.
4. Form the Balls:
To make the protein balls, use your hands or a small cookie scoop to scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly round; they’ll taste great no matter what!
5. Chill Out:
Once you’ve rolled all the balls, place them on a baking sheet or a plate lined with parchment paper. Pop them in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 1 hour. This helps them firm up.
6. Store Your Treats:
After chilling, your Paleo Pumpkin Protein Balls are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week, or you can freeze them for longer storage. Just grab one before you go out for a quick energy boost!
These protein balls are perfect for a quick paleo-friendly snack, packed with fiber, protein, and the warming flavors of fall pumpkin spices. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Nut Butters?
Absolutely! While almond butter is a great choice, feel free to substitute it with any nut or seed butter like peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter. Just note that different butters will slightly alter the flavor.
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness Level?
You can definitely adjust the sweetness to your preference! If you find the mixture too sweet, reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup. Alternatively, add a touch more if you prefer it sweeter—a little taste test goes a long way!
Can I Make These Protein Balls Without Oats?
Yes, you can! If you’re looking to avoid oats, try substituting with ground almonds or almond flour. This may change the texture slightly, so you might need to adjust the amount of liquid to maintain the right consistency.
How Should I Store These Protein Balls?
Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a freezer-friendly bag or container. Just thaw a few before you’re ready to enjoy!
