These Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty snack that packs a punch of nutrition! Made with pumpkin puree, chia seeds, and your favorite nut butter, they are both yummy and filling.
They’re perfect for when you need a quick energy boost or a sweet treat without the guilt. I love tossing a few in my bag for on-the-go munching. What’s not to love about good-for-you snacks? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: This is the star of the recipe. Using canned pumpkin puree is super convenient, but fresh pumpkin works great too if you have it. If you want to experiment, sweet potato puree is a fantastic substitute!
Nut Butter: I love almond butter for its creamy texture and flavor, but peanut butter or even sunflower seed butter can also work. If you need a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter is an excellent choice!
Protein Powder: I prefer vanilla flavored for a bit of sweetness, but you can use chocolate, unflavored, or even omit it if you want! If you’re vegan, make sure to choose a plant-based protein powder.
Chia Seeds: These provide texture and are packed with fiber and omega-3s. You can also substitute with flaxseeds if needed, but remember to grind them before adding!
How Do You Mix Ingredients Together for the Perfect Texture?
The mixing process is vital for the texture of your protein balls. Start by blending the wet ingredients first: the pumpkin puree, nut butter, and maple syrup. This ensures they combine smoothly without clumps.
- Gradually add in the dry ingredients: oats, protein powder, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, and spices.
- Mix gently but thoroughly—aim for a thick, sticky consistency. If it’s too wet, add oats; if too dry, add more pumpkin puree.
- Don’t be afraid to use your hands to really work the mixture together! This helps ensure everything is well incorporated.
After mixing, it’s crucial to chill the balls before eating. This helps them firm up, making them easier to roll and giving them a better texture! Enjoy your healthy snack!
How to Make Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup rolled oats (plus extra for rolling)
- 1/2 cup natural nut butter (e.g., almond or peanut butter)
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 1/3 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep. Once you’ve rolled your protein balls, they’ll need at least 1 hour in the fridge to firm up. So, you can whip these up quickly and let them chill while you do something else!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, nut butter, maple syrup (if you’re using it), and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
2. Mix in the Dry Ingredients:
Now, add the rolled oats, protein powder, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt to the bowl. Gently mix it all together until it’s thoroughly combined. The mixture should feel thick and a bit sticky. If it’s too wet, just add a little more oats or protein powder. If it feels too dry, add a bit more pumpkin puree or nut butter!
3. Shape the Protein Balls:
Using your hands, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. You can make them as big or small as you like!
4. Optional Coating:
If you want, you can roll each ball in extra oats or pumpkin seeds for a nice textured coating. This step adds a bit of crunch and makes them look pretty!
5. Chill and Store:
Place the rolled balls on a baking sheet or plate and pop them in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to eat. Once chilled, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll be ready for snacking!
Enjoy these yummy and nutritious Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls anytime you need a boost!
Can I Use Other Types of Seeds?
Absolutely! If you don’t have chia seeds, you can substitute them with flaxseeds for a similar nutritional punch. Just make sure to grind the flaxseeds before adding them to the mixture.
How Do I Store Leftover Protein Balls?
Store any leftover Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to one week, making them perfect for meal prep!
Can I Freeze These Protein Balls?
Yes! These protein balls freeze beautifully. Just place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and they can keep for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.
What Else Can I Add for Flavor?
If you want to spice things up, feel free to add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or shredded coconut to the mixture. Just make sure to adjust the quantities to keep the mixture from getting too wet or too dry!
