These Vegan Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty treat packed with wholesome ingredients. They’re made with pumpkin puree, oats, and protein powder, making them both healthy and yummy!
They’re perfect for a quick snack or a post-workout boost. I love having them ready in the fridge; it’s like a little energy pillow waiting for me! 🎃✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These give structure to the protein balls. If you need a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free oats. I sometimes toss in quick oats for a softer texture, but rolled oats are great for a chewy bite.
Pumpkin Puree: Unsweetened pumpkin puree is key for flavor. You can substitute with sweet potato puree or even butternut squash puree if pumpkin isn’t available. Both work well for a similar taste and texture.
Almond Butter: This adds creaminess and healthy fat. If you’re allergic to nuts, sunflower seed butter is an excellent alternative. I prefer almond butter for its mild flavor, but peanut butter could work too if you like that taste.
Maple Syrup: It provides natural sweetness. You could swap it for agave nectar or date syrup. I like to use a little less syrup occasionally for a less sweet ball, especially when I use flavored protein powder.
Vegan Protein Powder: Choose a vanilla flavor for extra taste. If you can’t find vegan protein, you can try a regular protein powder, just check if it meets your dietary needs.
How Do I Make Sure My Protein Balls Are the Right Texture?
Achieving the perfect texture is essential for these protein balls. You want them sticky enough to roll but firm enough to hold shape. Here’s how to get it right:
- Mix dry ingredients first to avoid clumping of the protein powder and spices.
- When adding wet ingredients, mix thoroughly—if too dry, add a small splash of water or non-dairy milk to help combine.
- If the mixture feels too wet, add more oats or protein powder until you reach the desired consistency.
After rolling, let them chill in the fridge. Chilling helps them firm up, so don’t skip this step!
Vegan Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup natural almond butter (or any other nut/seed butter)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1/4 cup vegan protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas), plus extra for garnish
- Pinch of salt
Estimated Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. Perfect for meal prepping!
Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, vegan protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and avoid clumps.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Now, add the pumpkin puree, almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix everything together until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. The mixture should be sticky but hold together when you press it with your hands.
3. Incorporate the Pumpkin Seeds:
Stir in the pumpkin seeds to add a delightful crunch and extra nutrition to your protein balls.
4. Shape the Balls:
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into balls about 1-inch in diameter. Place them gently on a lined tray or plate.
5. Refrigerate:
Once all the balls are shaped, place them in the fridge to chill for at least 1 hour. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to eat.
6. Store or Enjoy:
After chilling, you can enjoy these healthy snacks right away! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze them for longer storage.
Enjoy these wholesome, pumpkin-spiced vegan protein balls as a nutritious snack any time of day!
Can I Use a Different Nut or Seed Butter?
Absolutely! While almond butter is delicious, you can swap it for any nut or seed butter you prefer, such as peanut butter, sunflower seed butter, or cashew butter. Just ensure it has a similar consistency to achieve the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, agave nectar works well as a substitute. You can also use honey if it’s not a strict vegan option, or try date syrup for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the quantity if you’re using a thicker consistency.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them; just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Yes! Feel free to customize these protein balls by adding extras like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even shredded coconut for added flavor and texture. Just keep the proportions similar so the mixture still holds together well.