These Vegan Pumpkin Protein Balls are tasty little bites packed with pumpkin goodness and protein! They’re great for a quick snack or a post-workout boost.
Rolling these into balls is the fun part—it’s like playing with your food! I love having them ready to grab when hunger hits. Plus, they make a delightful treat for any pumpkin lover!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These serve as the base. Quick oats can be used too, but avoid instant oats as they may affect the texture. I often use a mix of both for extra chewiness!
Canned Pumpkin Puree: Look for 100% pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling. If you have fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it. For a twist, try butternut squash puree!
Vegan Protein Powder: Vanilla adds flavor, but if you want to skip it, increase the oats slightly and add more spices. Pea or hemp protein works well if you prefer something different.
Nut/Seed Butter: Almond butter is my favorite choice for its creamy texture. You can substitute peanut butter, sunflower seed butter, or any nut/seed version that you enjoy.
Maple Syrup or Agave Nectar: Both sweeteners work beautifully. Honey can replace it if not strictly vegan. For lower sugar, try mashed bananas!
How Do You Get the Right Texture for Protein Balls?
The texture is key to making these protein balls enjoyable! You want a mix that’s sticky enough to hold together but not too wet. Here are some tips to help:
- Start with the dry ingredients first and mix well to avoid clumps.
- Add wet ingredients gradually, mixing until you can form a ball with your hands.
- If the mixture is too sticky, sprinkle a little more oats or protein powder; if it’s too dry, add a splash of plant-based milk or extra pumpkin puree.
- Chill the balls for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up, making them easier to handle and helping them maintain their shape.
How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup vegan protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 1/4 cup almond butter or any nut/seed butter
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar
For the Flavor:
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-ins:
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds or hemp seeds for added nutrition
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In just a little over 40 minutes, you’ll have delicious, nutritious protein balls ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, vegan protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir them together until well mixed. This helps to evenly distribute all the flavors before adding the wet ingredients.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Next, add the canned pumpkin puree, almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Use a spatula or spoon to combine everything together until you get a sticky mixture that holds its shape. If the mixture feels too wet, you can add a bit more oats or protein powder. If it feels too dry, try adding a splash of almond milk or a bit more pumpkin puree.
3. Fold in Optional Ingredients:
If you’re using chia seeds or hemp seeds for extra nutrition, fold them into the mixture now. This not only adds nutrition but also gives your protein balls a fun texture!
4. Shape the Balls:
With your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect—just have fun with it! Place the formed balls on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper.
5. Chill and Store:
Refrigerate the protein balls for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up. Once chilled, enjoy them as a snack, or store leftover balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage!
These Vegan Pumpkin Protein Balls are not only healthy but also deliciously spiced, making them an ideal snack or post-workout treat!
Can I Use Other Nut Butters?
Absolutely! While almond butter is a great choice, you can substitute it with peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter if you need a nut-free option. Just ensure the consistency is similar for the best texture.
What If I Don’t Have Pumpkin Pie Spice?
No problem! You can make your own by combining 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ginger, and a pinch of allspice. Adjust to taste if you’d like a spicier flavor!
How Should I Store the Protein Balls?
Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Can I Substitute the Oats?
You can replace rolled oats with quick oats, but avoid instant oats as they can become mushy. For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free oats for the same great taste and texture!
