Satisfy your cravings and fuel your body with delicious and nutritious Pumpkin Protein Balls. Packed with a perfect blend of pumpkin puree, high-quality protein, and warm spices, these bites are the ideal snack for any time of day.
Whether you need a quick pick-me-up in the morning, a boost after a workout, or a sweet treat, our Pumpkin Protein Balls deliver satisfying flavour and essential nutrients. Say goodbye to bland snack options and hello to the irresistible combination of pumpkin and spices in every bite.
Get ready to be hooked on the delicious and healthy benefits of our Pumpkin Protein Balls – the perfect snack to fuel your body and tantalise your taste buds.
Ingredients
The ingredients used to make Pumpkin Protein Balls typically include the following:
Pumpkin Puree: Provides the base for the pumpkin flavour and adds natural sweetness to the balls.
Protein Powder (such as whey or plant-based): Adds extra protein to the balls, making them a more filling snack.
Rolled Oats: Adds texture and fibre to the balls while also helping to hold them together.
Sweetener (such as honey, maple syrup or stevia): Adds extra sweetness to the balls and can help hold them together.
Spices (such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger): Gives the balls the signature pumpkin spice flavour and can be adjusted to personal preference.
Baking Powder: This helps the balls rise slightly and become fluffier.
Salt: Balances out the flavours and enhances the overall taste of the balls.
Optional Add-ins (such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit): These can include ingredients such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to add extra flavour and texture to the balls.
How to Prepare?
The step-by-step instructions to make the Pumpkin Protein Balls recipe are given below:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup protein powder (such as whey or plant-based)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup sweetener (such as honey, maple syrup or stevia)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ginger
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, protein powder, rolled oats, sweetener, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- If using, fold in the optional add-ins (chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit).
- Roll the mixture into 1-2-inch balls.
- Place the balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutrition
The nutritional value of Pumpkin Protein Balls (per ball) is given below:
Nutrition Fact | Estimated Value (per ball) |
Calories | 60 |
Total Fat | 1.5g |
Cholesterol | 5mg |
Sodium | 20mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 7g |
Fiber | 1g |
Protein | 3g |
Variations
There are many variations to make Pumpkin Protein Balls, some of which include the following:
Peanut Butter: Add a couple of tablespoons of peanut butter to the mixture to add extra creaminess and nuttiness to the balls.
Chocolate Chips: Stir dark chocolate chips into the mixture before rolling them into balls for a chocolaty twist.
Almond Butter: Substitute some of the pumpkin purees for almond butter for a nutty flavour.
Coconut Flakes: Roll the balls in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Dried Cranberries: Add some dried cranberries for a burst of fruity sweetness.
Gingerbread: Add some molasses and gingerbread spices to the mixture for a holiday-inspired twist.
Matcha Powder: Stir some matcha powder into the mixture for a green tea flavour.
Storage Information
The Pumpkin Protein Balls can be stored in the following ways:
Room Temperature: Store the balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-5 days.
Refrigeration: Store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Store the balls in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let the balls thaw at room temperature before consuming.
When Should you Eat this?
You can consume the Pumpkin Protein Balls in the following ways:
As a Snack:
Between Meals: A high-protein snack between meals to help keep you full and satisfied.
Afternoon Pick-Me-Up: As an afternoon snack to boost energy and help you power through the rest of the day.
For Breakfast:
On-the-Go: This is a quick and easy breakfast option for busy mornings.
With Coffee: This is a tasty and nutritious breakfast option to enjoy with a cup of coffee.
As a Dessert:
After Dinner: As a sweet and healthy dessert option after a meal.
Sweet Tooth Satisfier: This is a guilt-free alternative for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Pre and Post-Workout:
Pre-Workout: As a pre-workout snack to provide energy and nourishment before exercise.
Post-Workout: A post-workout snack to help restore energy levels and aid recovery.
How Long Will These Energy Balls Last?
The shelf life of Pumpkin Protein Balls can vary based on the ingredients used and storage method.
Room Temperature Storage:
- Pumpkin Protein Balls can last for 3-5 days when stored at room temperature in an airtight container.
- This option is ideal if you plan to eat the balls within a few days and don’t mind the balls being soft to the touch.
- Avoid storing the balls in warm or humid environments, as this can affect their shelf life.
Refrigeration:
- When stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container, Pumpkin Protein Balls can last for 1 week.
- This option is ideal if you want the balls to be firm and keep their shape, as the refrigerator keeps them cool and firm.
- Place the balls in the refrigerator as soon as possible after making them to extend their shelf life.
Freezer:
- Pumpkin Protein Balls can last for up to 3 months when stored in the freezer in an airtight container.
- This option is ideal if you want to make a large batch of balls in advance and keep them on hand for later use.
- Let the balls thaw at room temperature before consuming.
Does Pumpkin Protein Balls Good for You?
Pumpkin Protein Balls can be a nutritious snack, depending on the ingredients used. It can provide several health benefits if made with healthy ingredients. Here are some potential health benefits of consuming Pumpkin Protein Balls:
High in Protein:
If the balls are made with a high-protein ingredient such as nuts, seeds, or protein powder, they can provide a significant amount of protein per serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscles and can also help keep you feeling full.
Fibre:
Some ingredients, such as rolled oats, pumpkin puree, and nuts, are high in fibre, which helps to promote healthy digestion and keep you feeling full.
Low in Added Sugars:
If the balls are made without added sugars or sweeteners, they can be a low-sugar snack option, which is beneficial for overall health.
Antioxidants:
The pumpkin puree used in the balls provides antioxidants, which can help to protect your cells from damage and promote overall health.
Boosts Energy:
With a combination of healthy carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, the balls can provide a sustained source of energy to keep you going throughout the day.
Supports Immune System:
Pumpkin is a good source of Vitamin C, which helps support the immune system.
Supports Healthy Skin:
Pumpkin is also rich in Vitamin A, which is important for maintaining healthy skin.
Supports Eye Health:
Vitamin A is also essential for maintaining good vision and supporting eye health.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Protein Balls can be a nutritious and delicious snack option when made with healthy ingredients. The pumpkin puree used in the balls provides antioxidants, fibre, and important vitamins and minerals, while the added nuts, seeds, and protein powder can provide healthy fats, protein, and fibre.
Additionally, the balls are easy to make and can be customised to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a pre or post-workout snack, a sweet treat, or a convenient and portable option, Pumpkin Protein Balls can be a great choice.
It is important to remember that the balls’ nutritional value can vary based on the ingredients used and serving size, so be sure to read the ingredient list and nutrition label before consuming.
Visit these protein powder recipes for more nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It depends on the recipe used to make the balls. Some recipes call for gluten-free rolled oats, while others may use regular oats. If you have a gluten intolerance, be sure to use gluten-free oats or a gluten-free substitute.
Pumpkin Protein Balls will last for up to one week in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Pumpkin Protein Balls can be made vegan using a plant-based protein powder, sweetener, and nut or seed butter.
Pumpkin Protein Balls can be made nut-free using seed butter or a nut-free protein powder instead of nut butter.
Some variations of Pumpkin Protein Balls include adding in spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg, using different types of sweeteners such as maple syrup or honey, and adding in nuts or seeds for extra crunch. You can also vary the type of protein powder used to change the flavour.