Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, pumpkin puree, and peanut butter, these protein balls offer a healthy snack option without compromising on taste.
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Quick and Easy: With no baking required, you can prepare these treats in just a few minutes, making them perfect for busy schedules.
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Diet-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free and easily adaptable to vegan diets by choosing appropriate protein powder and chocolate chips.
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Versatile Snack: Ideal for a post-workout boost, midday energy lift, or a healthy dessert alternative.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 4 tablespoons vanilla protein powder
- 3/4 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, smooth peanut butter, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
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Mix Thoroughly: Stir the ingredients together until well combined, forming a cohesive mixture.
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Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
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Form Balls: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, portion the mixture into tablespoon-sized amounts and roll into balls.
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Chill: Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.
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Enjoy: Once set, your pumpkin protein balls are ready to be enjoyed.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: Approximately 20 protein balls
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
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Nut Butter Alternatives: Substitute peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor profile.
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Protein Powder Options: Use chocolate or unflavored protein powder to vary the taste.
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Add-Ins: Incorporate chopped nuts, dried fruits, or seeds for added texture and nutrition.
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Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg or add pumpkin pie spice for a more robust flavor.
Storage/Reheating
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Refrigeration: Store the pumpkin protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
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Freezing: For longer storage, place the balls in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before consuming.
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Reheating: These protein balls are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature and do not require reheating.
FAQs
What type of oats should I use?
Old-fashioned rolled oats are recommended for their texture and nutritional value.
Can I make these vegan?
Yes, by using plant-based protein powder and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Is there a substitute for maple syrup?
Honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives.
How many calories are in each ball?
Each ball contains approximately 73 calories.
Can I omit the chocolate chips?
Yes, the chocolate chips are optional and can be left out if preferred.
What can I use instead of peanut butter?
Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter are good substitutes.
How long do they need to chill?
Chilling for at least 30 minutes helps them firm up.
Are these gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats and protein powder.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Absolutely, feel free to add nuts, seeds, or dried fruits.
How should I store them?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Protein Balls are a versatile and healthy snack that combines delightful flavors with nutritional benefits. Easy to prepare and customize, they make a perfect addition to your snack repertoire. Whether you’re looking for a quick energy boost or a satisfying treat, these protein balls are sure to please.
Pumpkin Protein Balls
Indulge in these delightful Pumpkin Protein Balls—a no-bake, gluten-free snack that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin, warm spices, and a hint of dark chocolate. Perfect for a quick energy boost or a healthy treat, these protein-packed bites are both delicious and nutritious.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 32 energy balls
- Category: Snacks
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 4 tablespoons vanilla protein powder
- 3/4 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
- A pinch of nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, smooth peanut butter, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Fold in the dark chocolate chips, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls using your hands or a cookie scoop for uniformity.
- Place the formed balls on a plate lined with parchment paper.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the balls to set before serving.
Notes
- For a different flavor profile, substitute peanut butter with almond or cashew butter.
- Ensure the maple syrup used is 100% pure for optimal taste and health benefits.
- To keep the recipe vegan, opt for dairy-free dark chocolate chips.
