These Almond Butter Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty and healthy snack! They’re packed with pumpkin, yummy almond butter, and just the right amount of sweetness.
They’re super easy to make—just mix everything together, roll into balls, and enjoy! I love popping one in my bag for a quick pick-me-up during the day. They’re so good, you might want to keep them all for yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These oats provide a hearty texture and fiber. If you need a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free oats. You can also use quick oats, but the texture will be different. I find that rolled oats give the best results!
Almond Butter: Almond butter is rich and creamy, adding flavor and healthy fats. Peanut butter is a great substitute if you’re in a pinch, or if you have a nut allergy, try sunflower seed butter for a similar texture.
Pumpkin Puree: Pumpkin adds moisture and a delicious fall flavor. Canned pumpkin is convenient, but homemade puree works well too. If you don’t have pumpkin, sweet potato puree can be used as a tasty alternative!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both sweeteners offer delicious options. Maple syrup is my personal favorite for its rich flavor. You can substitute agave syrup or date syrup if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Protein Powder: I like using vanilla protein powder for added flavor. If you want to skip the protein powder, you can replace it with more oats and a little extra almond butter to help bind the mixture.
How Do I Get the Right Texture When Mixing Ingredients?
Achieving the perfect texture in these protein balls is key! It starts with your dry ingredients and mixing them well. Here’s how to ensure it all comes together:
- Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly first to distribute the spices evenly.
- When adding almond butter and pumpkin, mix until you have a sticky dough. If it’s too crumbly, add a tiny splash of water or more pumpkin puree—start with just a little!
- Don’t hesitate to get your hands in there! Sometimes, the warmth from your hands helps everything stick together better.
- After rolling into balls, refrigerate them to help them firm up before serving. This makes them easier to grab and enjoy later!
Almond Butter Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds (optional, for mix-in or garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for a quick snack during a busy day or a healthy treat for gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger (if using), and salt. Stir well to make sure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the dry ingredients.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients
Add in the almond butter, pumpkin puree, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until a sticky dough forms. If it feels too dry and crumbles apart, don’t worry! Just add in a teaspoon of water or a little more pumpkin puree to help it stick together.
3. Add Texture
If you’d like some extra crunch, fold in the pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds into the mixture.
4. Roll Into Balls
Using your hands or a cookie scoop, take portions of the mixture and roll them into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You can make them smaller or bigger, just adjust the bite size to your liking!
5. Prepare for Chilling
Place the rolled balls on a tray or plate. If you want, press a few extra oats or pumpkin seeds onto the outside of the balls for decoration and added texture.
6. Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate the protein balls for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up. This step is important for getting the right texture!
7. Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just grab one when you need a quick energy boost!
Enjoy these pumpkin protein balls as a nutritious snack that’s bursting with flavor!
Can I Use Different Nut Butters?
Absolutely! If you prefer peanut butter or cashew butter, feel free to swap them in for almond butter. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly based on the nut butter you choose.
How Should I Store These Protein Balls?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. If you’re not going to eat them all that quickly, you can freeze them for up to three months—just thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!
What If the Mixture is Too Sticky or Dry?
If it’s too sticky, try adding a little more oats to balance it out. If it feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water, more pumpkin puree, or almond butter to help it come together. A good texture is key!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Yes! You can customize these protein balls by adding chocolate chips, dried fruit, or chia seeds for extra nutrition and flavor. Just remember to adjust the dry and wet ingredients slightly to maintain the right consistency.