These Pumpkin Banana Protein Balls are a fun and healthy snack! They mix the cozy flavors of pumpkin and banana with a protein boost, making them perfect for energy.
I whip these up for a quick snack or to keep me going after a workout. Plus, they taste like a yummy treat, and who doesn’t love that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: I love using rolled oats for their chewy texture. You can swap them with quick oats, but the texture will be softer. If you need a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free oats.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree is super convenient, but making your own from fresh pumpkin is an option! Just roast it, scoop out the flesh, and blend until smooth. Other squashes, like butternut, can also work in a pinch.
Banana: A really ripe banana gives the best sweetness and flavor. If you need a substitute, unsweetened applesauce is a great alternative, but the flavor will slightly change.
Nut Butter: I usually go for peanut butter, but almond butter or sunflower seed butter are excellent substitutes, especially if you have allergies to nuts.
Protein Powder: Vanilla protein powder adds a lovely taste. If you want to avoid protein powder entirely, increase the amount of oats to balance it out, though it will affect the protein content.
How Do I Combine Ingredients Without Making a Mess?
Mixing can get tricky, but here are some tips to keep it smooth:
- Start by mashing the banana well to create a liquid base, making it easier to combine.
- Mix your wet ingredients—pumpkin, nut butter, and sweetener—into the banana until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, thoroughly combine your dry ingredients before adding them to the wet mix. Slowly folding them helps prevent clumps.
- Use your hands to knead the mixture if needed. It’s easier to form balls if you use slightly damp hands to prevent sticking.
These tips will help you achieve a perfect dough consistency without too much hassle!
How to Make Pumpkin Banana Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Basic Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats (plus extra for rolling the balls)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1 medium ripe banana, mashed
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder (plant-based or whey)
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (plus some for garnish)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious snack ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mash the Banana:
Grab a mixing bowl and use a fork to mash the banana until it’s nice and smooth. This will be your base for flavor and sweetness!
2. Mix in Other Wet Ingredients:
Into the mashed banana, add the pumpkin puree, nut butter, honey or maple syrup (if you’re using it), and the vanilla extract. Stir everything together really well until it’s fully combined.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. This will ensure all the spices and flavors are evenly distributed.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, folding it together gently. Keep mixing until you have a sticky dough that holds together nicely.
5. Add the Chocolate Chips:
Now stir in the mini dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate until they are evenly spread throughout the dough. Chocolate makes everything better!
6. Form the Balls:
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into bite-sized balls. It can help to wet your hands slightly so the mixture doesn’t stick too much.
7. Roll for Texture:
Roll each ball in extra oats and some additional chocolate chips for a delightful texture on the outside. This is optional, but it adds a nice touch!
8. Chill Out:
Place the balls on a tray or plate lined with parchment paper. Pop them in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up!
9. Store and Enjoy:
Once chilled, transfer the protein balls to an airtight container. They will keep in the fridge for up to a week, or you can freeze them for longer storage. Enjoy them anytime for a quick energy boost!
These pumpkin banana protein balls are super tasty and packed with nutrition—perfect for a busy day!
Can I Use Different Sweeteners in These Protein Balls?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lower-glycemic option, you can substitute honey or maple syrup with agave syrup or stevia. Adjust the amount to your taste, as some sweeteners can be sweeter than others!
How Long Do These Protein Balls Last?
They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to a week in an airtight container. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before enjoying!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other add-ins like chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to customize your protein balls to your liking. Just keep in mind that adding too much may change their consistency.
What If the Mixture Is Too Sticky?
If your mixture feels too wet and sticky to form into balls, try adding a bit more oats or protein powder. This will help absorb excess moisture and make it easier to shape. Just add a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
