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Pumpkin Protein Balls

Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 14 balls

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Food processor (optional, for smoother texture)
  • Airtight container for storage

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup old-fashioned oats
  • 1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree not pumpkin pie filling
  • 1/2 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: mini chocolate chips chopped nuts, or shredded coconut

Instructions
 

  • Combine the wet ingredients. In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, nut butter, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  • Add the dry ingredients. Stir in the oats, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
  • Adjust the texture. If the mixture feels too sticky, add a little more oats or protein powder. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of nut butter or pumpkin puree.
  • Form the balls. Using your hands or a cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
  • Chill and store. Place them in the fridge for about 20–30 minutes to firm up before enjoying.

Notes

Tips for Making the Best Pumpkin Protein Balls

  • Use a good-quality protein powder. A vanilla or unflavored one works best to complement the pumpkin and spices.
  • Taste as you go. Every protein powder has a different sweetness level, so you might need to adjust the honey or syrup slightly.
  • Don’t skip chilling. This step helps the protein balls hold their shape and improves their chewy texture.
  • Add mix-ins. Chocolate chips, chia seeds, or crushed pecans make great additions for extra crunch and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using pumpkin pie filling instead of puree. Pie filling contains added sugars and spices that can throw off the flavor balance.
  • Too much liquid. Adding extra pumpkin or syrup can make the mixture too sticky to roll. Start small and adjust slowly.
  • Skipping the protein powder. It’s key for texture and structure, not just nutrition.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Nut-free: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter.
  • Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey and a plant-based protein powder.
  • Chocolate pumpkin balls: Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder and mini chocolate chips.
  • Pumpkin spice latte flavor: Mix in 1 teaspoon of instant coffee powder for a cozy coffee twist.
  • Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free oats.