Ingredients You’ll Need:

• Almond Butter: We recommend using a creamy, no-salt-added almond butter for the best control over the flavor. This acts as the primary binder and provides healthy fats.
• Canned Pumpkin: Ensure you grab pure canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that will alter the recipe.
• Vanilla Protein Powder: This boosts the protein content, making these balls a truly satisfying snack. Vanilla complements the pumpkin spice beautifully, but you can also substitute chocolate protein powder for a different twist.
• Honey: Our natural sweetener of choice, honey not only adds a lovely sweetness but also helps the protein bites stick together perfectly.
• Rolled Oats: Also known as old-fashioned oats, these provide fiber and structure to the energy balls. Avoid instant oats, as they absorb liquid differently.
• Mini Chocolate Chips: These are optional but highly recommended for a touch of chocolatey indulgence that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin spice.
• Spices: A blend of cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and a touch of salt brings all the warm, cozy flavors of fall to life.

Joy’s Mixing Tip

I always find that a sturdy rubber spatula is my secret weapon when making protein balls. Combined with a little “elbow grease,” it’s the easiest and most effective way to mix the dense batter evenly without leaving any dry pockets or unmixed ingredients.

Recipe Tip for Perfect Portions

For uniform, perfectly sized protein balls, I highly recommend using a cookie scoop. The one I use measures about 1.5 tablespoons, which creates consistent portions. After scooping, use your hands to gently roll each portion, evening out the edges and creating a smooth, round shape. If the mixture is a little sticky, lightly dampen your hands with water before rolling.

Storage Guidelines:

• In the refrigerator: Store any leftover pumpkin protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for 5-7 days. This is perfect for daily snacking!
• In the freezer: Our favorite method for ensuring a grab-and-go snack anytime! Freeze pumpkin protein bites in a freezer-safe, airtight container or a Ziploc bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply thaw it for several minutes at room temperature before eating. They defrost quickly and maintain their wonderful texture.

Almond Butter Recommendations:

For this specific recipe, I used a creamy, somewhat drippy almond butter with no added salt and no added sugar. This allows for maximum control over the sweetness and sodium content of your energy bites.

Important Note on Salted Almond Butter: If your chosen almond butter already contains salt, it is highly recommended that you omit the salt from the recipe initially. Once you’ve thoroughly mixed the dough, taste a small portion. If you feel it needs a bit more seasoning, you can then add a pinch of salt to taste. This prevents your protein balls from becoming overly salty, ensuring a balanced and delicious flavor profile.

Additionally, ensure your almond butter is at room temperature and easily stirrable. If it’s too thick or stiff, it might make the dough harder to mix and result in a less smooth texture. A natural, pourable almond butter works best.

Can I make these Pumpkin Protein Balls vegan?

Yes! To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the honey with an equal amount of maple syrup or agave nectar. Ensure your protein powder is plant-based (e.g., pea protein, rice protein) and your chocolate chips are dairy-free.

Are these suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Absolutely! The recipe uses rolled oats, which are naturally gluten-free. However, if you have a severe gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, make sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats to avoid cross-contamination.

How can I make these less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of honey by a quarter or even a third, depending on your preference. Since honey also acts as a binder, if you reduce it significantly, you might need to add a tiny bit more almond butter or pumpkin to maintain the consistency.

Why are my protein balls too sticky/crumbly?

The consistency can vary slightly depending on the brand and consistency of your almond butter and protein powder. If your mixture is too sticky, try adding a tablespoon or two more of rolled oats or protein powder. If it’s too crumbly, add a teaspoon or two more of almond butter or pumpkin until it comes together. Remember to chill them thoroughly, as this helps them firm up and reduces stickiness.

Can I skip the chocolate chips?

Of course! The mini chocolate chips are entirely optional. The pumpkin spice flavor is wonderful on its own. You could also substitute them with white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or dried fruit if you prefer.

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