These tasty pumpkin banana protein balls are perfect for a quick snack! They mix the sweetness of banana with the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices, all packed with protein to keep you going.
They are super simple to make—just mash, mix, and roll! I love grabbing one before my workout. It’s like a cozy hug in snack form! 🎃🍌
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ripe Banana: The banana adds natural sweetness and binds the mixture. If you’re out of bananas, unsweetened applesauce can be a great substitute!
Pumpkin Puree: Either canned or fresh works well. For a change, try sweet potato or butternut squash puree for a similar effect.
Rolled Oats: These provide texture. Quick oats can be used, but avoid instant oats as they may turn mushy.
Protein Powder: Vanilla works deliciously, but feel free to use chocolate or leave it out for a non-protein version.
Nut Butter: I love natural peanut butter for its flavor, but almond or cashew butter are yummy alternatives too!
Sweetener: Adjust the maple syrup or honey to your taste. For a low-carb option, try stevia or erythritol.
Chocolate Chips: Mini chocolate chips are optional, but they add fun! You can swap for raisins or chia seeds for a healthier twist.
How Can You Get the Right Consistency for the Mixture?
The key to the right texture is balancing the wet and dry ingredients. Start by mashing the bananas well, then mix in the pumpkin and nut butter thoroughly. This helps everything stick together nicely.
- Mix in the oats and protein powder gradually to avoid a lumpy mixture.
- If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more oats to absorb the moisture.
- It should be sticky but form easily into balls. Refrigerate for a bit if it’s too soft.
These steps will ensure your protein balls hold their shape, making them easy to store and enjoyable to eat! Enjoy creating your delicious snacks!
How to Make Pumpkin Banana Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/4 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
For Sweetness and Flavor:
- 1-2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 tsp salt
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes in the fridge to firm up. So, in about 40 minutes, you’ll have yummy pumpkin banana protein balls ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mash the Banana:
Start by peeling the ripe banana and placing it into a large mixing bowl. Use a fork or a potato masher to mash it until it’s smooth and creamy. This helps create a nice base for your balls.
2. Mix in the Pumpkin and Nut Butter:
Add the pumpkin puree and your choice of nut butter to the bowl with the mashed banana. If you’re using maple syrup or honey for sweetness, add that now too! Stir everything together until it’s combined and looks smooth.
3. Add Spices and Protein Powder:
Next, sprinkle in the protein powder, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Stir well until all the dry ingredients are fully incorporated, and you have a well-mixed batter.
4. Incorporate the Oats:
Now, add the rolled oats to the mixture. Stir until the oats are evenly coated and a sticky dough forms. If you want to include mini chocolate chips, fold those in gently at this stage.
5. Shape the Protein Balls:
With clean hands, take small portions of the dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet or a plate lined with parchment paper.
6. Chill the Balls:
Once you’ve rolled all the dough, put the baking sheet or plate in the refrigerator. Let the protein balls chill for at least 30 minutes. This will help them firm up and hold their shape.
7. Store and Enjoy:
Your pumpkin banana protein balls are now ready! Keep them stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for a longer shelf life. Enjoy these protein-packed snacks anytime you need a quick energy boost!
Can I Use a Different Fruit Instead of Banana?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of banana, you can use unsweetened applesauce or even mashed avocado as substitutes. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
How Do I Ensure the Protein Balls Hold Their Shape?
To make sure the balls maintain their shape, ensure your mixture is well-combined and sticky. If it feels too wet, add a bit more oats. Chilling the balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes also helps firm them up nicely!
Can I Make These Vegan?
Absolutely! Just use a plant-based protein powder and maple syrup instead of honey. The recipe is already dairy-free since it uses nut butter, so you’re all set for a delicious vegan snack!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store the pumpkin banana protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They also freeze well, so if you’d like to keep them longer, just pop them in the freezer for up to three months!
