These Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty and healthy snack! Packed with pumpkin, apples, and a hint of cinnamon, they’re perfect for a boost anytime during the day.
These little bites are so easy to make—just mix, roll, and enjoy! I love keeping them in the fridge for an on-the-go pick-me-up. Yummy and good for you—what’s not to love?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These keep the protein balls chewy and provide fiber. If you’re gluten-sensitive, look for certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats can work too, but they may change the texture slightly.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin is convenient and consistent. You can use fresh pumpkin, but be sure to cook and puree it first. If you’re in a pinch, unsweetened applesauce can work as a substitute, though it will change the flavor a bit.
Protein Powder: I like vanilla protein powder for a touch of sweetness; it blends well with the flavors. You can use plant-based protein powder if you’re vegan or make it without protein powder by adding an extra 1/4 cup of oats.
Dried Apples: Dried apples add nice sweetness and texture. If you can’t find them, feel free to chop up some fresh apples instead, just keep in mind it might affect the balance of wet ingredients.
Pecans: These add a nice crunch. Walnuts or almonds could be substituted, or you can leave them out if you prefer a nut-free version. Just make sure to check for allergies!
How Do You Make Sure the Mixture Holds Together?
Getting the right consistency is important for these protein balls. You’ll want them sticky enough to roll into balls without falling apart. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Mix your dry and wet ingredients thoroughly until you see no dry patches. This ensures even distribution.
- If the mixture feels dry, add a little more pumpkin puree or a splash of water to moisture it up.
- If it’s too wet, add a bit more oats or protein powder to thicken it.
- After rolling into balls, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up nicely!
Feeling adventurous? You can also add in extras like coconut flakes, chia seeds, or chocolate chips for variety!
Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 1/4 cup dried apple pieces or finely chopped dried apples
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
- 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (adjust sweetness to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in just 45 minutes, you can have a healthy, scrumptious snack ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients
Start by grabbing a large bowl. In it, mix together the rolled oats, protein powder, ground cinnamon, chopped pecans, dried apple pieces, and a pinch of salt. Stir it all together until it’s evenly mixed—this will set the base for your protein balls!
2. Add the Wet Ingredients
Now it’s time to add some gooey goodness! Pour in the pumpkin puree, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until the mixture forms a sticky dough. If you find it’s too dry, just add a splash of water or a bit more pumpkin puree to moisten it up. Conversely, if it feels too wet, sprinkle in some more oats or protein powder to balance it out.
3. Roll Into Balls
Once your mixture is just right, it’s time to roll it up! Grab a small amount of the mixture (about 1 inch in diameter) and roll it into a ball using your hands. Place these balls on a lined tray or plate. Keep going until you’ve rolled all of the mixture!
4. Chill & Store
Now, pop your tray of protein balls into the fridge and let them chill for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps them firm up and makes them easier to eat. Once they’re nice and set, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They make the perfect quick snack or energy boost throughout your busy days!
Enjoy your delicious Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Protein Balls—healthy snacking never tasted so good!
Can I Use Fresh Apples Instead of Dried Apples?
Yes, you can use fresh apples! Just chop them finely and keep in mind that they may add more moisture to the mix. To maintain the balance, you might need to adjust the amount of pumpkin puree or oats in the recipe.
Can I Make These Protein Balls Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace the honey with maple syrup, which is vegan-friendly. Ensure your protein powder is plant-based, and you’re all set for a delicious vegan snack!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them for up to three months—just thaw them in the fridge when you’re ready to eat!
Can I Substitute the Protein Powder?
Yes! If you don’t have protein powder or prefer not to use it, you can increase the oats by 1/4 cup. However, this will lower the protein content slightly, so keep that in mind!
