Pumpkin Protein Balls: A Cozy Fall Treat
With the crispness of autumn in the air, it’s the perfect time to indulge in cozy treats that evoke memories of pumpkin spice lattes and warm family gatherings. One recipe that always brings me joy—like a cherished hug—is my Pumpkin Protein Balls. These delightful, creamy bites capture the essence of fall with their golden hue and comforting blend of flavors. They’re the ideal snack to help power you through busy days or to share at those festive gatherings.
These sweet little morsels are incredibly easy to whip up, making them one of my favorite go-to snacks. If you’re searching for a fast, no-bake recipe that’s perfect for meal prep or a delightful afternoon nibble, you’ve found it with these Pumpkin Protein Balls. Seriously, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can create a batch of these protein-packed balls in no time!
- No-Bake Delight: No need for any baking; just mix, scoop, and freeze for a cozy fall treat.
- Family-Friendly: These balls are perfect for kids and adults alike, making them a great option for lunchboxes or as after-school snacks.
- Nutritious & Delicious: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, they’re a satisfying treat that won’t leave you feeling guilty.
- Customizable: Feel free to add in your favorite mix-ins or toppings—there’s no limit to the deliciousness you can create!
What You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients for your Pumpkin Protein Balls:
- 1 cup rolled oats (gluten free if desired)
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup raw honey (sub maple syrup for vegan)
How to Make Pumpkin Protein Balls
Let’s make it together! Follow these cozy steps to create your delicious Pumpkin Protein Balls:
- In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients. This is where the magic begins, the creamy almond butter blending beautifully with the warm spices and rich pumpkin puree.
- Using a small cookie scoop, scoop out approximately 24 small balls. Each scoop is like a little treasure filled with goodness!
- Use your hands to gently roll each scoop into a ball and place them on a plate. The warmth from your hands will help them stick together perfectly.
- Freeze the balls for about 10 minutes. This little chill session helps them firm up and makes them even more delightful to enjoy!
Delicious Variations to Try
- Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Protein Balls: Fold in some dark chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent twist that would please any chocolate lover.
- Nutty Apple Cider Balls: Swap the pumpkin puree for unsweetened apple sauce and add cinnamon and chopped nuts for a zesty fall flavor.
- Coconut Bliss Balls: Mix in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical touch; it pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin spice!
- Crunchy Pumpkin Seeds: Add a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds on top for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make Ahead: These protein balls are perfect for meal prep. Make a batch ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze them for up to three months.
- Ingredient Swaps: If you’re looking for a nut-free version, feel free to use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter.
- Snack Size: If you’d like smaller bites, you can scoop out mini balls—just reduce the freezing time accordingly.
- Add Some Flavor: Feel free to experiment with throwing in some chia seeds or flaxseed meal for extra health benefits!
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 100
- Carbs: 12g
- Sugar: 6g
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 25mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead? Absolutely! These balls hold up wonderfully in the fridge or freezer for on-the-go snacking.
Can I use different ingredients? Sure! You can customize this recipe to suit your taste—try different nut butters or sweeteners as needed.
How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, or freeze them for longer storage.
How long does it last? They can last for about a week in the fridge or up to three months in the freezer.
A Cozy Closing Note
These Pumpkin Protein Balls aren’t just a snack; they’re a simple, loving reminder of the beauty of autumn and the goodness of home-cooked treats. Whether for a busy day at work or a cozy evening at home, they bring warmth and joy to each bite. Save this Pumpkin Protein Balls recipe to your cozy snack board so it’s ready when you need a little seasonal treat! Enjoy every flavorful moment!
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Pumpkin Protein Balls
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These no-bake Pumpkin Protein Balls are a cozy fall treat packed with protein and flavor. Perfect for snacks or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats (gluten free if desired)
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup raw honey (sub maple syrup for vegan)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients.
- Using a small cookie scoop, scoop out approximately 24 small balls.
- Use your hands to gently roll each scoop into a ball and place them on a plate.
- Freeze the balls for about 10 minutes.
Notes
These protein balls are perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for three months. Experiment with mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for variant flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: pumpkin, protein balls, healthy snacks, no-bake, fall treats