These Vegan Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty, healthy snack! Made with pumpkin puree, nut butter, and protein powder, they’re perfect for a quick energy boost.
They’re like little bites of fall that make snacking a delight. I love grabbing a couple before heading out! Plus, they’re super easy to make—just mix, roll, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: They are essential for texture and fiber. If you’re gluten-free, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats can be a substitute but may result in a slightly different texture.
Pumpkin Puree: This gives a lovely flavor and moisture. Canned pumpkin is convenient, but if you have fresh pumpkin, feel free to roast and puree it. It adds a personal touch!
Almond Butter: This nut butter adds creaminess and healthy fats. You can swap it with peanut butter, sunflower seed butter for nut-free options, or even tahini. Each will bring its unique flavor.
Vegan Protein Powder: Vanilla protein adds a nice flavor. If you’re not vegan, you can use regular whey protein. If you’re looking to skip protein powders altogether, consider using ground flaxseed for some protein content.
Maple Syrup: It sweetens and adds moisture. Agave nectar or any liquid sweetener like date syrup can serve as alternatives. You can also reduce sweetness by using mashed banana.
How Can I Ensure My Pumpkin Protein Balls Hold Together?
The key to perfect Pumpkin Protein Balls is achieving the right texture. If your mixture feels too wet, add a bit more ground oats to absorb extra moisture. Alternatively, if it’s too dry, adding a bit of plant milk or more pumpkin puree will help. It should feel sticky but moldable in your hands.
- Pulse the oats to make a fine flour; this helps bind the mix.
- Mix all ingredients until combined; don’t overmix, as it can change the texture.
- Refrigerating them not only firms up the balls but enhances the flavors, so don’t skip it!
How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup almond butter (or other nut/seed butter)
- 1/4 cup vegan protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts or raisins for texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In no time, you’ll have delicious snack-sized Pumpkin Protein Balls ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oats:
Start by pulsing the rolled oats in a food processor or blender until they resemble a coarse flour. This helps create a smoother texture for your protein balls. Just a few pulses should do the trick!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Transfer the oat flour into a mixing bowl. Add in the pumpkin puree, almond butter, vegan protein powder, maple syrup (or agave), pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until it forms a sticky dough. If your mixture feels too wet, a little more oat flour will help, and if it’s too dry, add a splash of plant milk or more pumpkin puree to get the right consistency.
3. Add Extras and Roll:
If you’re using chopped nuts or raisins, fold them gently into the mixture. Then, scoop out tablespoon-sized amounts of the mixture and roll them into balls using your hands. It can get a bit sticky, but that’s part of the fun!
4. Chill the Balls:
Place the protein balls on a lined plate or tray. Pop them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This step helps the balls hold their shape and improves the texture.
5. Store and Enjoy:
After chilling, your Pumpkin Protein Balls are ready to eat! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage. Enjoy these tasty, wholesome bites anytime you need a quick snack or energy boost!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Oats in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats to ensure the recipe remains gluten-free. They will work just as well as regular oats in the protein balls.
Can I Substitute Almond Butter with Another Nut Butter?
Yes, you can easily substitute almond butter with other nut butters like peanut butter or cashew butter. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter works great too!
How Long Do These Protein Balls Last?
These Vegan Pumpkin Protein Balls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just remember to let them thaw for a few minutes before enjoying!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to Customize the Flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to add extras like chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or seeds like chia or flax for added nutrition and flavor. Just keep an eye on the texture; if you add a lot of dry ingredients, you might need to adjust the wet components slightly.