These Coconut Pumpkin Protein Balls are a fun and healthy snack! Packed with pumpkin puree, coconut, and protein, they are perfect for a quick energy boost.
Honestly, I could munch on these all day! They’re great for satisfying sweet cravings while keeping it simple and nutritious. Plus, they’re no-bake, so less mess in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Canned Pumpkin Puree: This gives the balls their lovely pumpkin flavor and moisture. If you can’t find canned pumpkin, you could use homemade pumpkin puree, but ensure it’s well-cooked and blended.
Rolled Oats: They provide structure and texture. Quick oats can be a substitute, but I find rolled oats offer better chewiness. Gluten-free oats work if you need a gluten-free option!
Vanilla Protein Powder: This adds protein and sweetness. If you prefer, you can use chocolate-flavored protein powder for a different twist. For a vegan option, choose a plant-based protein powder.
Almond Flour: It helps bind the balls together while adding flavor. In case of nut allergies, you can use oat flour or all-purpose flour instead.
Shredded Coconut: Unsweetened shredded coconut adds texture. Sweetened coconut can be used, but it will increase the sugar content. Coconut flakes can also be a fun substitute for a chunkier texture.
How Do I Get the Right Dough Consistency for the Protein Balls?
Getting the right consistency is crucial for forming the balls. Start with the wet ingredients mixed in well, then gradually add the dry ingredients. Here are some tips:
- If your dough feels too wet, add oats or almond flour a tablespoon at a time until it holds together without being sticky.
- Mix thoroughly to ensure everything is distributed evenly; you want a thick, sticky dough, not crumbly!
- When shaping the balls, if they’re sticking to your hands, slightly dampen them for easier handling.
How to Make Coconut Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder (choose your favorite type)
- 1/2 cup almond flour or finely ground almonds
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut (plus extra for rolling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time. Then, just let the protein balls chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish, most of which is just waiting for them to set!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, maple syrup (or honey), pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. This base is what gives the balls that lovely pumpkin flavor!
2. Add the Dry Ingredients:
Next, add in the rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, almond flour, and shredded coconut. Mix thoroughly until all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and a thick, sticky dough forms. If the dough feels too wet and doesn’t hold its shape, sprinkle in more oats or almond flour a tablespoon at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
3. Shape the Protein Balls:
Grab a shallow plate and place some shredded coconut on it for rolling. Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, take a portion of the dough and shape it into 1-inch balls. Make sure they’re compact so they hold together well.
4. Coat with Coconut:
Once shaped, gently roll each ball in the shredded coconut until it’s fully coated. This adds a nice flavor and texture to the outside of each ball!
5. Chill and Firm Up:
Arrange the finished balls on a plate or tray and pop them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps them firm up nicely, making them easier to bite into.
6. Store for Enjoyment:
These Coconut Pumpkin Protein Balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze them too! Just layer them in an airtight container with parchment paper in between, and they’ll be ready to grab whenever you need a quick snack.
Enjoy your nutritious and delicious Coconut Pumpkin Protein Balls as a snack or quick pick-me-up! Happy snacking!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth. You’ll need about 1 1/4 cups of fresh pumpkin to replace the 1 cup of canned puree.
What If I Don’t Have Protein Powder?
If you don’t have protein powder, you can replace it with an additional 1/4 cup of almond flour. However, keep in mind that the protein content will be lower, and the texture might be slightly different.
How Can I Customize These Protein Balls?
You can easily customize these by adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or seeds. Dried fruit such as cranberries or raisins also works well. Just remember to keep the total dry ingredients consistent!
How Should I Store Them?
Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze well! Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper, and they will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
