These Salted Caramel Pumpkin Protein Balls are a tasty treat packed with pumpkin, protein, and a hint of sweet caramel. They’re perfect for a quick snack or a healthy dessert.
Honestly, these little bites are like fall in your mouth! I love making them for a cozy movie night or an afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up—no baking required!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: This ingredient brings moisture and flavor. You can use canned or fresh pumpkin puree. If you don’t have pumpkin, try applesauce for a similar texture, but the flavor will change.
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats help bind everything together. If you need a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats work in a pinch, but they may change the texture a bit.
Nut Butter: I prefer almond butter for its creaminess, but any nut butter works—peanut, cashew, or sunflower seed butter if you need it nut-free. Just be aware that different butters affect flavor slightly.
Protein Powder: I enjoy caramel-flavored protein powder for sweetness, but vanilla protein works too. You can also use plant-based protein if you prefer a vegan option.
Sweetener: Maple syrup gives a lovely taste, but honey is a great substitute. For a lower-calorie option, consider using stevia or another calorie-free sweetener.
How Do I Achieve the Right Consistency for the Protein Balls?
The mixture should feel sticky but hold together well. If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of water or extra nut butter. If it’s too sticky, chill the mixture for 15 minutes to make it easier to roll into balls.
- Make sure to mix until all the oats are combined with the wet ingredients.
- Rolling the balls with slightly damp hands can keep them from sticking too much.
- If you want firmer protein balls, let them chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes after rolling.
How to Make Salted Caramel Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut butter)
- 1/4 cup caramel-flavored protein powder (or vanilla protein powder with caramel extract)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
For Topping:
- Sea salt flakes, for topping
- Pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10-15 minutes of prep time plus an additional chilling time of at least 30 minutes for the protein balls to set in the refrigerator. It’s a quick and easy treat that you can make in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add in the pumpkin puree, almond butter, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Use a spatula or a whisk to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add the rolled oats, caramel protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt to the bowl. Stir everything together well until it forms a dough-like consistency. It should be thick and moldable.
3. Roll the Protein Balls:
Using your clean hands or a small cookie scoop, take portions of the mixture and roll them into small 1-inch balls. If you find the mixture is too sticky to handle, pop it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to help firm it up.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once rolled, place the protein balls on a tray or plate. If you’d like, you can press a few pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts on top of each ball for extra crunch and decoration.
5. Perfect the Salted Caramel Flavor:
Before you chill the balls, take a moment to sprinkle a pinch of sea salt flakes over each one. This tweak adds that lovely salted caramel flavor we all love!
6. Chill Before Serving:
Now, cover the tray with plastic wrap or foil and pop it in the refrigerator. Let the protein balls chill for at least 30 minutes to help them solidify and enhance the flavor.
7. Store and Enjoy:
After chilling, your delicious Salted Caramel Pumpkin Protein Balls are ready to enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll keep well for up to one week.
Enjoy these delightful bites of autumn bliss as a healthy snack or when you need a quick burst of energy!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth. One cup of fresh pumpkin should yield similar results as canned.
Can I Substitute the Nut Butter?
Yes, you can use any nut or seed butter you like! Peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter are all great alternatives, each bringing a unique flavor to the protein balls.
How Can I Make These Protein Balls Vegan?
For a vegan version, simply use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your protein powder is plant-based. All other ingredients are naturally vegan!
How Should I Store the Protein Balls?
Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage, and they should last up to three months in the freezer!