These Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty treat packed with flavor. They’re made with real apple, warm cinnamon, and pumpkin for a cozy, healthy snack!
They are super easy to make. Just mix the ingredients, roll into balls, and enjoy! I love popping these in my lunch for a sweet surprise! 🍏🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are the base for your protein balls, adding texture and fiber. If you need gluten-free options, make sure your oats are certified gluten-free. Also, quick oats can be used if that’s what you have on hand!
Pumpkin Puree: Use pure pumpkin puree, not the spiced pie filling. If you’re out of pumpkin, applesauce could work as a substitute for a similar consistency, though the flavor will change a bit.
Protein Powder: I recommend vanilla for added flavor, but unflavored is fine. If you’re dairy-free, look for plant-based protein powders like pea or brown rice protein. This may alter the taste slightly, but they work great!
Pecans: These add a nice crunch, but feel free to swap them for walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. Just chop them finely to maintain the right texture.
Almond or Peanut Butter: Both are delicious, but if there are allergies, sunflower seed butter is a great alternative. I like almond butter for its creaminess, but peanut butter provides extra flavor!
How Do I Get the Right Consistency for the Mixture?
Getting the right texture is key to having protein balls that hold together! Here’s how to adjust it:
- Start with the base mixture. If it feels too wet or sticky, add more oats or protein powder a little at a time.
- If it’s too dry and crumbly, add pumpkin puree or nut butter in small increments until it sticks together. This will make it much easier to roll into balls.
- A good rule of thumb is to test your mixture by pressing it into a ball in your hand—it should hold together without crumbling.
Once you achieve that sticky but manageable consistency, roll them into balls and refrigerate them for the best results! Enjoy snacking!
Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup peeled apple, finely grated or chopped small
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 1/4 cup pecans, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, in total, plan for about 40 minutes until you can enjoy your protein balls!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, start by combining the rolled oats, protein powder, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Make sure to mix these dry ingredients well so the flavors are evenly distributed!
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In another smaller bowl, stir together the pumpkin puree, almond butter (or peanut butter), honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and grated apple. Keep mixing until everything is smooth and well combined. This mixture will bring a lot of flavor to your balls!
3. Combine the Mixtures:
Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix them together thoroughly; you want everything to be evenly combined. Once that’s done, fold in the chopped pecans for added crunch!
4. Adjust the Consistency:
Your mixture should be sticky but manageable. If it feels too wet, simply add a bit more oats or protein powder until it’s just right. On the flip side, if it’s too dry, add a small amount of pumpkin puree or nut butter until it sticks together nicely.
5. Shape the Balls:
Using your hands, take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. It can get a little messy, but that’s part of the fun!
6. Chill the Balls:
Place the finished balls on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up. This will make them easier to eat later on!
7. Store and Enjoy:
Once set, store your protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll be good for up to one week—if they last that long! Grab one whenever you need a quick snack or a post-workout pick-me-up!
Enjoy these nutritious, flavorful Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Protein Balls!
Can I Use Different Nuts or Seeds?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the pecans for any nuts you prefer, such as walnuts or almonds, or even use seeds like sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Just remember to chop them finely to maintain a good texture!
Can I Use a Different Sweetener?
Yes! If you want to use a different sweetener, you can opt for agave syrup, coconut sugar, or even stevia. Just adjust the quantity to taste, as some sweeteners vary in sweetness level.
How Do I Store These Protein Balls?
Store your protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months; just let them thaw in the fridge before enjoying!
What Should I Serve These With?
These protein balls are perfect as a stand-alone snack! You can also pair them with fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a smoothie for a delicious and nutritious meal or snack time.