These Coconut Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty treat packed with goodness! Made with pumpkin, coconut, and a touch of sweetness, they’re perfect for a snack or quick breakfast.
They’re easy to make—just mix, roll, and enjoy! I love how they give me energy without the sugar crash. Plus, the coconut adds a fun texture that makes me smile with every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin is best for convenience, but you can also use homemade pumpkin puree. Just roast and blend fresh pumpkin. It keeps the same flavor and offers a slightly fresher taste.
Rolled Oats: Regular rolled oats work great, but if you’re gluten-free, opt for certified gluten-free rolled oats. Quick oats can be used too, but they may change the texture slightly.
Shredded Coconut: Unsweetened coconut is ideal to control sweetness. If you can’t find unsweetened, sweetened coconut can be used, but reduce the honey or maple syrup slightly to balance flavors.
Nut Butter: Almond butter has a milder taste, while peanut butter adds a classic flavor. For nut-free options, sunflower seed butter does the trick. Adjust based on your taste preference!
Protein Powder: Use your favorite protein powder, but if you don’t have any, you can leave it out and add more oats instead. This will change the texture but still keep it delicious!
How Do You Make Sure Your Protein Balls Hold Together?
The key to a good texture is balance. When mixing the dry and wet ingredients, aim for a thick and sticky consistency. If too wet, add oats or protein powder gradually until it firms up. Here’s how:
- Combine the wet ingredients thoroughly before mixing.
- After adding the dry ingredients, mix until fully combined.
- Chill the mixture before rolling into balls to help them firm up.
Trust me, chilling helps them hold their shape and gives you the perfect bite every time!
How to Make Coconut Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if desired)
- 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut (plus extra for rolling)
- 1/3 cup almond or peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
Spices and Flavor:
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Garnish:
- Pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes of chilling time in the fridge. In total, you’ll be looking at around 45 minutes to have these delicious protein balls ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing Wet Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add the canned pumpkin puree, nut butter (almond or peanut), honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. You want all those flavors combined well!
2. Combining Dry Ingredients:
Next, add in the rolled oats, shredded coconut, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until you have a thick and sticky dough. If it feels too wet to roll, you can add a little more oats or protein powder until it’s just right.
3. Forming the Balls:
Now, it’s time to get hands-on! Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; each ball is unique!
4. Coating with Coconut:
On a shallow plate, sprinkle some extra shredded coconut. Roll each ball in the coconut to coat them evenly. This adds a lovely texture and sweetness!
5. Adding Garnish:
Once the balls are coated, place them on a tray or plate. If you like, you can top each one with a pumpkin seed or a slice of almond for a pretty finish.
6. Chilling:
Lastly, pop the tray in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up, making them easier to eat and giving them a wonderful chill!
7. Storing Your Treats:
Enjoy your Coconut Pumpkin Protein Balls right away, or store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze well, so feel free to stock up!
These yummy protein balls are perfect as a quick snack or a boost before or after your workout. Enjoy!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Yes! You can make your own pumpkin puree by roasting fresh pumpkin and blending it until smooth. Just be sure to let it cool before using it in the recipe!
What Can I Use Instead of Honey or Maple Syrup?
If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, you can use mashed bananas or unsweetened apple sauce. Just keep in mind that this may alter the flavor and sweetness slightly.
How Should I Store Leftover Protein Balls?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container or bag!
Can I Add More Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in extras like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts for added flavor and texture. Just be mindful to keep the ratios consistent so the balls hold together nicely!
