These Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty and healthy snack! Made with oats, pumpkin, and warm spices, they pack a nutrition punch.
Perfect for on-the-go, these bites make me feel like I’m enjoying fall all year round. It’s like having a little hug in snack form! 🍏🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are key for binding and texture. If you want a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats can work too but might make the texture slightly different.
Pumpkin Puree: Unsweetened pumpkin puree is best for flavor. You can use homemade pumpkin puree if you have it! If you’re in a pinch, unsweetened applesauce can be a good substitute, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Dried Apples: These add sweetness and flavor. If you can’t find them, try using raisins or even fresh apple pieces (but you might need to adjust the moisture in the recipe).
Pecans: Pecans add a nice crunch and flavor, but walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds can be used if you prefer or if you have a nut allergy.
Nut Butter: I recommend natural peanut butter for creaminess. Almond butter is a great alternative. If you’re nut-free, you can use sunflower seed butter.
Sweetener: Honey or maple syrup enhances flavor. You can reduce the amount of sweetness if using sweetened nut butter or add a sugar substitute like agave syrup if desired.
How Do I Make Sure the Protein Balls Hold Together?
Getting the right consistency for your protein balls can be tricky! Here’s how to ensure they hold together well:
- Combine dry ingredients first for even mixing.
- When adding moist ingredients like pumpkin and nut butter, mix thoroughly to avoid dry patches.
- If the mixture feels too crumbly, simply add a little more pumpkin puree or a splash of water until it’s sticky.
- If it’s too wet, add a bit more oats or protein powder to balance.
Don’t forget to roll them tightly to help them keep their shape after chilling! Letting them firm up in the fridge is essential for the best texture.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup dried apple pieces or finely chopped dried apples
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 scoop vanilla or unflavored protein powder (about 1/4 cup)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (optional)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp dried cranberries (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In just about 45 minutes, you’ll have a tasty batch of protein balls ready for snacks, breakfast, or post-workout munching!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Now, add in the pumpkin puree, peanut butter (or almond butter), honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until you achieve a smooth consistency, ensuring there are no dry patches left.
3. Fold in the Mix-Ins:
Gently fold in the chopped pecans, dried apple pieces, and cranberries if you’re using them. Make sure these ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. Adjust the Consistency:
Check if the mixture holds together when you roll it into a ball. If it seems too dry, carefully add a little more pumpkin puree or a teaspoon of water. If it feels too wet, sprinkle in more oats or protein powder until it’s just right!
5. Form the Balls:
Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch sized balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray or plate.
6. Refrigerate to Set:
Put the tray with the protein balls in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This will help them firm up nicely!
7. Store and Enjoy:
Once they’re chilled, store your protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage. Enjoy these flavorful bites as a nutritious snack or post-workout boost!
Can I Use Fresh Apples Instead of Dried Apples?
Yes, you can use fresh apples! Just make sure to finely chop them and possibly reduce the pumpkin puree slightly to maintain the right consistency. Fresh apples may add a bit more moisture, so adjust the mixture accordingly.
Can I Make These Protein Balls Vegan?
Absolutely! To make the protein balls vegan, simply use maple syrup instead of honey and opt for a plant-based protein powder. Almond butter is a great choice for the nut butter, and everything else is already vegan-friendly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze well, so you can make a larger batch and freeze them for convenient snacks later on. Just thaw them in the fridge before eating!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Mix?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding chia seeds, flax seeds, or chocolate chips for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to keep the overall balance of wet and dry ingredients in mind, adjusting as needed!
