These Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls are a perfect snack! Packed with protein, they mix delicious pumpkin flavor and crunchy chia seeds into a tasty bite-sized treat.
I love making these little balls for a quick energy boost—plus, they’re so easy! Just mix the ingredients, roll them up, and enjoy. Who knew healthy snacks could be so fun? 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: They add a chewy texture and provide healthy fiber. If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats work too, but avoid instant oats as they can get mushy.
Canned Pumpkin Puree: Using pure pumpkin is a must for the right flavor and moisture. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with mashed sweet potato or butternut squash.
Nut Butter: Almond butter is my favorite for its creaminess. Peanut butter is a great alternative, or for a nut-free option, you could try sunflower seed butter.
Sweeteners: Honey gives a nice flavor, but maple syrup is a wonderful plant-based alternative. Adjust the sweetness based on your preference!
Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are packed with nutrients. If you’re out of chia seeds, you can use flaxseeds if you have them, but they should be ground first for better texture.
Mini Dark Chocolate Chips: They add a hint of sweetness and richness! You can swap these with raisins or nuts if you want to skip the chocolate.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Consistency for My Protein Balls?
Getting the right texture in these protein balls is key. Start by mixing the oats and chia seeds well with the other dry ingredients. When adding the wet stuff, gradually combine it all.
- If your mixture feels too wet, it won’t hold shape, so sprinkle in more oats until it firms up.
- Conversely, if it’s too dry, a splash of water or pumpkin puree can help bring it all together.
- After forming the balls, refrigerate them. This really helps them set and hold their shape better when you grab them for a snack!
Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then another 30 minutes to chill. It’s a quick and easy snack option that you can whip up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, pumpkin pie spice, chia seeds, mini dark chocolate chips, and a pinch of salt. Stir them together so everything is mixed well.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Add the pumpkin puree, almond butter (or peanut butter), honey (or maple syrup), and the vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix well until everything is combined into a sticky dough. It should hold together nicely when pressed in your hands.
3. Adjust the Consistency:
If your mixture seems too wet and won’t hold shape, sprinkle in a bit more oats. If it’s too dry and crumbly, add a splash of water or more pumpkin puree to reach the right consistency.
4. Form the Balls:
Using your clean hands, take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You can adjust the size based on your preference!
5. Chill the Protein Balls:
Place the rolled balls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once you’ve rolled all the mixture, pop them into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help them set.
6. Store and Enjoy:
After chilling, your Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls are ready to enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Enjoy them as a quick snack or a wholesome breakfast bite!
These delicious protein balls are not only nutritious but also packed with flavor—perfect for fueling your day!
Can I Use Other Nut Butters in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While almond butter is a great choice, feel free to substitute it with peanut butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly based on the nut butter used!
How Do I Make These Vegan?
To make these pumpkin protein balls vegan, simply replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Ensure that your nut butter is also vegan-friendly, as most are, but it’s always good to double-check the label!
Can I Freeze These Protein Balls?
Yes! You can freeze the Chia Pumpkin Protein Balls for up to 3 months. Pack them in an airtight container or zip-lock bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Just thaw in the fridge for a few hours before you want to enjoy them!
What Can I Substitute for Chia Seeds?
If you’re out of chia seeds, you can use flaxseeds instead, simply grind them up first. However, if you prefer to keep it simple, you can also leave them out, but the texture may be slightly affected. Adding some crushed nuts could still give you a nice crunch!
