These Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls are a yummy snack packed with energy! They combine pumpkin puree, chia seeds, and peanut butter for a tasty treat that’s perfect for any time.
Plus, they are super easy to make—just mix the ingredients, roll them into balls, and you’re set! I love grabbing one before a workout or for a quick pick-me-up. Who knew healthy could taste this good? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats create a nice chewiness in these protein balls. Quick oats can work too, but they might make them slightly softer. If you need a gluten-free version, look for certified gluten-free oats!
Pumpkin Puree: Using canned pumpkin is super convenient, but fresh pumpkin works just as well. Just roast and puree it. I prefer the canned variety for its consistency and ease.
Peanut Butter: While I love natural peanut butter for its taste and texture, almond butter is a great alternative. Sunflower seed butter is perfect if you need a nut-free option.
Chia Seeds: These seeds add a nice crunch and nutrition. If you’re out of chia, flax seeds can be a good substitute. Just be mindful that flax has a different taste.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both sweeteners are great, and you can choose based on your sweetness preference. For a vegan option, stick with maple syrup!
How Do I Make Sure My Protein Balls Hold Together?
The key to getting your protein balls to hold their shape is the right balance of wet and dry ingredients. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your mixture is sticky, but not too wet. You want it to hold together when rolled into balls.
- If it feels too crumbly, add a splash more of pumpkin puree or nut butter.
- Chilling the mixture is crucial; it helps the fat from the nut butter firm up, making it easier to roll.
- If they aren’t sticking together after chilling, try adding a bit more nut butter or a spoonful of honey to help bind everything.
Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 1.5 hours to chill, including the time for the balls to set in the fridge. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing the ingredients and then just let them firm up before enjoying! It’s that simple!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, take your rolled oats, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Give it a good stir until everything is combined. This will be the dry base for your protein balls!
2. Add 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 have a nice, sticky dough. It should hold together well!
3. Incorporate the Chocolate:
Next, fold in the dark chocolate chips gently, making sure they are distributed evenly throughout the mixture. Chocolate makes everything better, doesn’t it?
4. Chill the Mixture:
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the mixture firm up a bit so it’s easier to roll into balls.
5. Roll Into Balls:
Once chilled, scoop out the mixture using your hands or a cookie scoop. Roll it into balls about 1 inch in diameter. If you like, you can roll some of these balls in extra chia seeds for a fun touch!
6. Set in the Fridge:
Place your protein balls on a baking sheet or in a container and refrigerate them for at least an hour. This will help them set properly.
7. Storage:
Store your pumpkin protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze nicely—perfect for prepping snacks in advance!
8. Enjoy!
These protein balls are fantastic for a quick snack or as a boost of energy any time of day. Enjoy your nutritious tasty treat!
Can I Use Different Nut Butters?
Absolutely! You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you have nut allergies. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly depending on which nut butter you choose!
What Can I Use Instead of Honey or Maple Syrup?
If you’re looking for a sugar-free or lower-carb option, you can use agave syrup or a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. Just adjust the amount to match your taste preference, as sweetness levels vary.
How Do I Store the Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls?
Store your protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. You can also freeze them for up to three months—just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Definitely! You can add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, nuts, or even seeds like flaxseeds for an extra nutritional boost. Just be mindful of the total volume so the mixture stays cohesive.
