These Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty snack packed with flavor! They’re made with real pumpkin, sweet apples, and a sprinkle of cinnamon—perfect for fall.
My favorite part? They’re super easy to make! Just mix everything together, roll into balls, and you’re set for a delicious and healthy treat. Perfect for on-the-go munching! 🍏🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These provide the base for the protein balls and add heartiness. If you need a gluten-free option, simply use certified gluten-free oats. They can also be replaced with quinoa flakes for a different texture.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin is convenient and adds moisture. You could use homemade pumpkin puree if you have fresh pumpkin on hand. Sweet potato puree is a tasty alternative too, bringing a slightly different flavor.
Nut Butter: I love using peanut butter for its rich taste, but almond butter works well if you prefer a milder flavor or have a peanut allergy. Sunflower seed butter is another great alternative for nut-free diets.
Protein Powder: Vanilla protein powder complements the flavors nicely. If you want a dairy-free option, look for plant-based protein powders like pea, hemp, or brown rice protein. You can also skip it, but you might want to increase oats or nut butter to maintain texture.
Dried Apples: They add a sweet touch! If you don’t have dried apples, you can substitute with raisins or cranberries. Fresh apples can be used too, but chop them very finely and consider adding less moisture overall.
How Do You Get the Right Texture for Protein Balls?
Achieving the perfect texture for your protein balls is key! The mixture should be sticky enough to hold together when rolled, but not too wet. Here are some tips:
- Start with the dry ingredients. Make sure they’re well combined before adding wet ingredients.
- If the mixture is too dry, add a bit more pumpkin or nut butter, a tablespoon at a time.
- If it’s too wet, sprinkle in more oats or protein powder until you reach the desired consistency.
- Letting the balls chill in the refrigerator helps them firm up, making them easier to handle.
With these tips, you’ll create the perfect protein ball batch! Enjoy snacking guilt-free!
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1/4 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped dried apples or apple chips
- 1-2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (adjust for sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then you’ll need to chill the balls for at least 1 hour. So, overall, you can whip these up quickly and have a delicious snack ready in just a short while!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together well until it’s uniform. This will ensure that the flavors and nutrients are evenly distributed throughout the protein balls!
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Next, add in the canned pumpkin puree, natural peanut butter, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Mix everything together using a spatula or your hands until you have a sticky dough. You want it to be well combined so that each bite is packed with flavor!
3. Fold in the Apples:
Now, gently fold in the finely chopped dried apples or apple chips. This adds a delightful chewiness and natural sweetness to your protein balls.
4. Roll into Balls:
Using your hands, take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfectly round—each one is unique!
5. Prepare for Chilling:
Place the protein balls on a parchment-lined tray or plate. Make sure they are spaced out so they don’t stick together while chilling.
6. Chill and Set:
Pop the tray into the refrigerator and let the protein balls chill for at least 1 hour. This will help them firm up so they’re easy to handle and perfect for snacking!
7. Store Your Protein Balls:
Once chilled, transfer the protein balls to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or you can freeze them for longer use. Just thaw some out when you want a quick, healthy snack!
Enjoy these delicious and nutritious Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Protein Balls as a pick-me-up during your day or as a post-workout treat!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Just make sure to cook and purée it until smooth before using it in the recipe. Remember that fresh pumpkin can be a bit wetter, so you might need to adjust the other wet ingredients a little to maintain the right texture.
How Do I Make These Protein Balls Vegan?
To make these protein balls vegan, simply use a plant-based protein powder and substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. You can also opt for almond or sunflower butter if peanut butter isn’t suitable.
Can I Add Other Ingredients or Flavors?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding ingredients like chocolate chips, chia seeds, or flaxseeds for added texture and nutrition. You might also try different spices like ginger or vanilla extract to customize the flavor!
How Should I Store Any Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!
