These tasty gluten-free pumpkin protein balls are a perfect snack! Made with creamy pumpkin and protein powder, they’re both healthy and filling.
Whenever I need a quick pick-me-up, I love grabbing these little bites. Plus, they take just a few minutes to whip up! Who doesn’t love a snack that’s easy and yummy? 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gluten-Free Rolled Oats: These provide a great base for your protein balls. If you’re avoiding oats altogether, you can use crushed nuts or seeds for a different texture and flavor.
Pumpkin Puree: Unsweetened pumpkin puree is essential for moisture and flavor. If pumpkin isn’t available, mashed sweet potatoes or butternut squash works well too!
Nut/Seed Butter: Almond butter is my go-to for its creamy texture, but you can substitute with peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for nut-free options.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both provide sweetness, but if you’re looking for lower sugar, try using mashed bananas or a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit.
Protein Powder: Use your favorite brand, but make sure it’s gluten-free. If you want a plant-based option, go for pea or brown rice protein.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Texture for Protein Balls?
Getting the right texture is key to these gluten-free pumpkin protein balls. Start by mixing your dry ingredients first. That way, everything blends easily when you add the wet ingredients. Here are a few tips:
- Make sure your mixture is sticky but holds together. If it’s too wet, just add a little more oats.
- Use your hands to form bite-sized balls; this helps them stick together better.
- Refrigerating the balls for at least 30 minutes helps them firm up, making them easier to eat.
How to Make Gluten-Free Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup almond butter or any nut/seed butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 scoop vanilla or unflavored protein powder (gluten-free)
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice or a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips (optional, gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp shredded coconut (optional, for rolling/coating)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the mixture, and then about 30 minutes for chilling in the fridge. Altogether, you can have these tasty pumpkin protein balls ready to enjoy in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free rolled oats, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. This will ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly mixed before adding the wet ones.
2. Mix in the Wet Ingredients:
Add the pumpkin puree, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and sticky. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more oats; if it feels too dry, just add a touch more pumpkin puree or nut butter.
3. Add Chocolate Chips:
If you’d like a little sweetness from chocolate, fold in the mini chocolate chips now. They’ll add a delightful surprise in every bite!
4. Form the Balls:
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. You can place them directly onto a lined tray or plate as you go.
5. Roll in Coconut (optional):
If you want an extra layer of flavor and texture, roll each ball in shredded coconut before placing them on the tray. It gives them a nice touch and makes them look pretty!
6. Chill and Store:
Put the tray in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the balls firm up and hold their shape. Once chilled, you can transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to a week or can be frozen for longer storage.
Enjoy your nutritious, homemade gluten-free pumpkin protein balls as a quick snack or after your workout! They’re packed with flavor and good-for-you ingredients that will keep you energized throughout the day.
Can I Substitute the Almond Butter?
Absolutely! If you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, try using sunflower seed butter, cashew butter, or peanut butter. Each will give the protein balls a unique taste while maintaining their creaminess.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness Level?
If you want to reduce sweetness, you can cut back on the honey or maple syrup a bit. Alternatively, consider using mashed bananas or a sugar substitute to sweeten without adding too much sugar.
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Yes! Feel free to customize your protein balls by adding ingredients like chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for added texture and flavor. Just make sure to keep the proportions in mind so the mixture remains cohesive.
How Do I Store the Protein Balls?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying!