Pumpkin Protein Balls

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When the weather starts to cool down, pumpkins begin to appear everywhere, reminding us of cozy days ahead.

But there’s more to pumpkins than just Halloween decorations or holiday pies. How about turning this seasonal favorite into a nutritious snack?

Pumpkin protein balls are a fun, tasty way to enjoy the flavors of fall while fueling your body.

They’re quick to make and packed with goodness, making them an ideal treat for anyone looking for a boost during the day.

Whether you’re looking for a post-workout snack or a simple pick-me-up, these protein balls hit the spot. Let’s get into the fun of making them!

Table of Contents

Pumpkin Protein Balls Recipe

Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl
Rubber spatula
1-ounce cookie scoop
Parchment paper
Baking sheet

Ingredients

½ cup unsweetened cashew butter (about 145 g)
⅓ cup coconut sugar (approximately 65 g)
¼ cup canned pumpkin puree (around 60 g)
1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
¾ cup unflavored collagen protein (about 75 g)
¼ cup ultra-fine almond flour (30 g)
¼ cup coconut flour (30 g)
2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon and ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
¼ teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cashew butter, pumpkin puree, coconut sugar, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or rubber spatula to mix everything until it’s smooth and well blended.
Gradually add the collagen protein powder to the wet mixture, stirring as you go. Keep mixing until there are no visible streaks or lumps, ensuring the collagen is evenly mixed in.
Next, add the remaining dry ingredients into the bowl. Use the rubber spatula to combine everything. The mixture will become thick, but keep stirring until the dough is uniform in color with no streaks.
Take a 1-ounce cookie scoop and portion out the dough. Roll each scoop into smooth balls using your hands, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Once you’ve rolled all the dough, put the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the protein balls firm up. After they’ve chilled, store them in a sealed Ziploc bag in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks, ready for you to enjoy whenever you like!

Tips For Success With Protein Energy Balls

Making protein balls can be simple and fun! Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:

Measure Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you have the right amounts for each ingredient.
Mix Thoroughly: Ensure that all the ingredients are well mixed so that everything is evenly distributed.
Chill Before Serving: After making the protein balls, allow them to chill in the fridge. This helps them hold their shape better.
Use a Cookie Scoop: This tool can help you get uniform sizes, making your protein balls look neat and consistent.
Experiment: Don’t hesitate to try different flavors or ingredients to find what you like best.

Substitutions And Variations For Pumpkin Protein Balls

If you don’t have certain ingredients or want to switch things up, there are many options to consider:

Nut Butters: Swap cashew butter for peanut butter or almond butter for a different taste.
Sweeteners: You can use honey or maple syrup instead of coconut sugar for natural sweetness.
Protein Sources: Try using whey protein or plant-based protein powder instead of collagen protein.
Flours: Replace almond flour with oat flour or use a gluten-free flour blend.
Add-Ins: Consider adding mini chocolate chips, dried fruits, or seeds for extra flavor and texture.

How To Store Your Pumpkin Protein Balls?

To keep your protein balls fresh and tasty, follow these simple storage tips:

Refrigerate: Store them in a sealed container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for about two weeks.
Freeze: If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Place the protein balls in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.
Label: If you freeze them, label the bag with the date, so you know when to enjoy them by!

Why Are My Pumpkin Protein Balls Not Sticking?

If your protein balls are falling apart, it could be due to a couple of reasons. First, you might have too dry ingredients.

If you added too much flour or other dry ingredients, they may not hold together. To fix this, try adding a bit more nut butter or a splash of water.

Another reason could be that there isn’t enough liquid in your mixture. Ensure you have enough wet ingredients like nut butter or pumpkin puree to help them stick.

What Are The Benefits Of Pumpkin Protein Balls?

Protein balls offer several great benefits. They are nutrient-rich, providing a good mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber.

This makes them a nutritious snack that can help keep you full.

They are also fantastic for a quick energy boost, making them perfect for before or after workouts.

Additionally, protein balls are convenient, as you can make them ahead of time and take them on the go, making healthy snacking simple.

Why Are My Pumpkin Protein Balls Too Dry?

If your protein balls feel dry and crumbly, it may be due to not enough moisture in the mixture.

You might need to add more nut butter or pumpkin puree to help with this. Over-processing your ingredients can also make them dry.

If you used too much flour or protein powder, that could lead to dryness as well, so adjusting the amounts next time can help.

Can You Eat Too Many Pumpkin Protein Balls?

While protein balls are healthy, moderation is essential. Eating too many can lead to excess calories, especially if they contain high-calorie ingredients like nut butter and sweeteners.

It’s best to enjoy them as part of a balanced diet to avoid overdoing it.

What If My Pumpkin Protein Balls Are Too Wet?

If your protein balls are sticky or too wet, don’t worry! You can fix this by mixing in a bit more almond flour or coconut flour to absorb the extra moisture.

Additionally, refrigerating them for a while can help them firm up.

Can Pumpkin Protein Balls Be Left Out?

It’s advisable to keep your protein balls refrigerated. However, they can sit out for a few hours if you’re serving them. Just be careful not to leave them out for too long.

Always return leftovers to the fridge after serving to maintain their freshness and safety.