These no-bake Paleo Pumpkin Protein Balls are both yummy and healthy! Made with pumpkin, nut butter, and a touch of honey, they’re perfect for a quick snack.
They are so easy to make that even my kitchen isn’t scared of them! Just mix, roll, and enjoy. I love taking them on hikes for that extra boost of energy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Almond Flour: This is the base for these protein balls. Its nutty flavor adds richness. If you’re nut-free, try sunflower seed flour or coconut flour, but use less, as coconut flour absorbs more moisture.
Raw Rolled Oats: They provide texture and fiber. If you’re avoiding grains, you can skip them or use a mix of finely shredded coconut for a different texture.
Pumpkin Puree: Fresh or canned, both work! Ensure it’s 100% pure pumpkin. If you don’t have pumpkin, try sweet potato puree or even apple sauce for a different flavor.
Nut/Seed Butter: Almond butter adds a lovely creaminess. You can use cashew butter or sunflower seed butter for nut-free options. Just make sure they’re smooth for best results!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both sweeteners will work well. If you’re looking for a different sweetener, try a sugar-free syrup or agave, but adjust to taste.
How Do I Achieve the Right Texture?
Getting the right texture is important for these protein balls. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Mix Well: When combining your dry and wet ingredients, ensure everything is combined thoroughly. It helps to use your hands if necessary.
- Stickiness: The dough should be sticky enough to hold together. If it’s too dry, add a bit more nut butter or pumpkin puree. If too wet, sprinkle in a bit more almond flour or oats.
- Chilling: Refrigerating the balls helps them firm up. Don’t skip this step! It makes them easier to handle and gives them a better bite.
Enjoy making these protein balls perfect for snacks or pre-workout energy boosts!
How to Make Paleo Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup raw rolled oats (gluten-free if strict paleo)
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
Binding Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup almond butter (or any nut/seed butter)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
Flavoring Ingredients:
- 1 scoop vanilla paleo-friendly protein powder (e.g., collagen or plant-based)
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips (optional, paleo-compliant)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In just over 45 minutes, you will have delicious, healthy snacks ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, rolled oats, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt. Use a spoon or whisk to ensure that everything is well mixed.
2. Combining Wet Ingredients:
Add the pumpkin puree, almond butter, and honey or maple syrup to the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until a sticky dough forms. You may want to use your hands for this step to make sure all the ingredients are fully combined.
3. Adding the Chocolate Chips:
If you’d like to add a touch of sweetness and flavor, fold in the mini chocolate chips at this stage. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
4. Forming the Protein Balls:
Take small portions of the dough and roll them into 1-inch balls using your hands. Place each ball onto a parchment-lined plate or tray as you go.
5. Chilling the Balls:
Once all the balls are formed, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up. This will make them easier to handle and tastier to eat!
6. Storage:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to a week—if they last that long!
Now you have a batch of nutritious and delicious Paleo Pumpkin Protein Balls. Enjoy them as a quick snack on-the-go or alongside your favorite afternoon beverage!
Can I Use Other Nut Butters?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different nut or seed butter, feel free to swap almond butter for cashew, peanut, or sunflower seed butter. Just ensure it’s smooth for the best texture.
Can I Make These Balls Vegan?
Yes! To make them vegan, simply replace the honey with maple syrup or agave syrup, and ensure your protein powder is plant-based.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage. Just place them in a freezer-safe container and enjoy them later!
Can I Add Other Mix-ins?
Absolutely! You can customize your protein balls by adding chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. Just keep in mind that the added ingredients may change the texture slightly, so adjust the dough accordingly if it gets too dry or too wet.
