These Paleo Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty and healthy snack made with real pumpkin, nut butter, and protein powder. They’re perfect for an energy boost anytime!
Making these balls is super simple—just mix everything together, roll, and enjoy! I love grabbing a few before workouts. They satisfy my sweet tooth without the guilt! 🍂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Canned Pumpkin Puree: Make sure you use unsweetened pumpkin puree. If you can’t find canned, homemade pumpkin puree works too! Just roast and blend pumpkin until smooth.
Almond Flour: Almond flour gives these balls a nice texture. If you need a nut-free option, try sunflower seed flour or oats ground into flour.
Nut Butter: Almond butter is my favorite for its creamy taste, but peanut butter or sunflower seed butter also works well. Choose what you like or have on hand!
Pumpkin Seeds: These add a nice crunch and extra nutrients. If you’re not a fan, you can substitute with sunflower seeds or chopped nuts.
Chocolate Chips: Look for dairy-free options if you’re keeping it paleo. You could also omit them or use dried fruit for a different sweetness.
How Do You Achieve the Right Texture for Your Protein Balls?
The texture of protein balls is important! You want them to be firm enough to hold their shape but soft enough to enjoy. Mixing without overworking is key here.
- Combine wet ingredients first—make sure they’re mixed well!
- Gradually add dry ingredients until a dough forms. If too crumbly, add a little more nut butter or pumpkin puree until it holds together.
- Before rolling, check the texture. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more almond flour. Too dry? A splash of water can help.
Finally, chill the balls before serving. This helps them firm up and keeps them from falling apart!
Paleo Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut butter of choice)
For Added Texture and Flavor:
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, plus extra for rolling
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (dairy-free, paleo-friendly)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 2 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional, for added nutrition)
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1-2 scoops paleo-friendly protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes for chilling in the refrigerator. Overall, you’re looking at less than an hour to have these tasty snacks ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, almond butter, maple syrup (if you’re using it), and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This will be the flavorful base for your protein balls.
2. Add the Dry Ingredients:
Next, add the almond flour, pumpkin pie spice, protein powder, shredded coconut, chia seeds (if you chose to include them), and a pinch of salt to the bowl. Mix until everything is well combined and a dough forms. If it feels too dry, you can add a little more nut butter or pumpkin puree.
3. Incorporate Extras:
Gently fold in the pumpkin seeds and chocolate chips. This adds great texture and flavor throughout the mixture. Make sure they are evenly distributed!
4. Shape the Protein Balls:
Now it’s time to shape your mixture! Scoop about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Repeat this process until all the mixture has been shaped.
5. Coat with Coconut (Optional):
If you’d like, roll each ball in some extra shredded coconut to give it a lovely finish. This adds an extra layer of flavor and looks appealing!
6. Chill and Firm Up:
Place the protein balls on a plate or baking sheet and put them in the refrigerator. Let them chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to enjoy.
7. Store for Later:
Once chilled, store the protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just remember to thaw them before enjoying!
Enjoy these pumpkin-flavored, paleo-friendly protein balls as a nutritious snack or pre-workout boost! They’re delicious, healthy, and perfect for on-the-go munching!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh pumpkin! Just make sure to roast it until tender, then blend it until smooth. Aim for the same amount as the canned puree (1 cup) to keep the consistency right.
What Can I Substitute for Almond Flour?
If you need a nut-free option, consider using sunflower seed flour or oat flour. Alternatively, you can grind rolled oats into a fine flour for a similar texture!
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer a sweeter ball, feel free to increase the amount of maple syrup or honey! Start with an additional tablespoon and taste as you go. You can also add a bit of mashed banana for natural sweetness.
How Do I Store These Protein Balls?
Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer shelf life—just allow them to thaw before enjoying!
