Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty, healthy snack packed with goodness! Made from pumpkin puree, chia seeds, and protein powder, they’re perfect for on-the-go energy boosts.
These little bites are not only fun to make but also taste wonderfully nutty and slightly sweet. I love having them after a workout or as a midday treat—just a small pick-me-up that keeps me going!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Oats give these protein balls their base and help bind everything together. You can substitute quick oats if needed, but avoid instant oats as they won’t hold shape well.
Pumpkin Puree: I love using canned pumpkin for ease, but fresh puree works great too! If you’re in a pinch, sweet potato puree can be a wonderful alternative.
Protein Powder: A quarter cup of your preferred protein powder adds a nutritional boost. Plant-based or whey protein both work nicely. Don’t have any? You can skip it, but the texture may change slightly.
Chia Seeds: Chia seeds add fiber and help bind the ingredients. If you don’t have them, ground flaxseeds can be an excellent substitute.
Nut Butter: Almond and peanut butter add creaminess and richness. You can also use sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. Just check that it’s smooth for easier mixing!
Maple Syrup or Honey: Use these to sweeten the protein balls to your taste. Agave syrup works too if you want a vegan option.
How Do I Make Sure My Protein Balls Bind Well?
The key to getting your Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls to hold together lies in the right balance of wet and dry ingredients. Here are some steps to help:
- Combine wet ingredients thoroughly first. This helps the flavors mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing well to ensure everything is coated with the wet mixture.
- Chilling the mixture for 30 minutes is crucial! This firmens it up, making rolling easier.
- If the mixture feels too loose, add a tablespoon more of oats or seeds. If too dry, a little extra nut butter or syrup can help.
With these simple tips, you’ll have perfect little bites of goodness every time! Enjoy your healthy snack!
Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons nut butter (almond or peanut)
- 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Once you add chilling time, plan for about 1 to 1.5 hours in total (30 minutes for initial chilling and 1 hour for setting). A quick and easy snack you can enjoy anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mixing The Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, nut butter, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Use a spatula to stir until everything is smooth and creamy. This will be the base of your protein balls!
2. Adding The Dry Ingredients
Next, add the rolled oats, protein powder, chia seeds, pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon), and a pinch of salt to the bowl. Mix everything together well until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated with the wet mixture. It should look like a thick dough.
3. Incorporating Chocolate Chips
If you’re using them, fold in the dark chocolate chips gently. This adds a delicious touch of sweetness and indulgence!
4. Chilling The Mixture
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and place it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to roll into balls.
5. Rolling Into Balls
Once the mixture is chilled, take a small amount (about 1 tablespoon) and use your hands to roll it into bite-sized balls, roughly 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture feels too sticky, wet your hands slightly to help with rolling.
6. Adding Texture (Optional)
If you’d like an extra crunch, you can roll the balls in additional chia seeds or rolled oats to coat them. This is completely optional, but it looks nice and adds some texture!
7. Setting The Balls
Place the rolled balls on a baking sheet or plate and refrigerate them for at least 1 hour. This helps them set and stay firm.
8. Storing Your Delicious Treats
Once they are fully set, transfer your Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to one week or frozen for longer storage. Perfect for a quick, healthy snack!
Enjoy these nutritious and delicious Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls as a convenient snack or pre/post-workout energy boost!
Can I Use a Different Sweetener Instead of Maple Syrup or Honey?
Absolutely! You can use agave syrup, coconut syrup, or even stevia for a lower-calorie option. Just adjust the quantity to taste, as some sweeteners are stronger or sweeter than others.
How Can I Store These Protein Balls for Longer?
You can freeze the Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls to extend their shelf life. Just place them in an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer!
Can I Omit the Protein Powder?
Yes, you can omit the protein powder if you don’t have it or prefer not to use it; just know that it may alter the texture slightly. You might want to add an extra tablespoon of oats or nut butter for binding if you do!
What Should I Do if the Mixture Is Too Sticky?
If your mixture feels too sticky to roll, try chilling it for a bit longer. You can also add a bit more rolled oats or chia seeds to help it firm up. Just make sure to mix thoroughly after adding extra ingredients!
