These salted caramel pumpkin protein balls are a perfect little treat! With tasty pumpkin and a hint of caramel, they’re both yummy and packed with protein, making them a great snack.
Honestly, who can say no to a snack that tastes like fall? I love grabbing a few of these for a quick pick-me-up during the day. They’re easy to make, and my family can’t get enough!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: This is the star ingredient, offering moisture and flavor. If you don’t have canned pumpkin, you can make your own by roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkin. Alternatively, squash like butternut works well too!
Nut Butter: Almond butter is my favorite for its creamy texture, but peanut butter gives a stronger flavor. For nut-free options, sunflower seed butter can fit nicely. Just be mindful of allergies!
Protein Powder: A must for the protein boost! While vanilla adds a lovely flavor, unflavored works too. If you’re vegan, plant-based protein powders like pea or rice are great substitutes.
Sweeteners: Maple syrup lends a lovely taste, but honey can be used if you’re okay with non-vegan options. Agave syrup is another alternative for a similar flavor profile.
Rolled Oats: Optional but fabulous for texture. If you’re gluten-sensitive, choose certified gluten-free oats. You can skip them if you prefer a smoother texture.
How Do You Make Sure the Mixture Sticks Together?
Creating the right consistency for your protein balls is key! After mixing your wet ingredients, add the protein powder and spices gradually. If the mixture feels too loose, incorporate rolled oats little by little until it holds together well.
- Use your hands to assess the texture; it should form easily into a ball.
- If you added oats but still find it too wet, a little more protein powder can help balance it out.
- Chilling the mixture also makes it firmer, so don’t skip the fridge step!
Salted Caramel Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Protein Balls:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 cup natural almond butter or peanut butter
- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 tsp sea salt, plus extra for sprinkling
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (optional, for texture)
- 2 tbsp caramel-flavored syrup or caramel sauce (optional for deeper caramel flavor)
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseed or chia seeds (optional for extra nutrition)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill, bringing the total time to around 45 minutes. Perfect for a quick snack prep!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the canned pumpkin puree, almond butter (or peanut butter), maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until smooth and well combined. You want to make sure there are no lumps!
2. Mix in Dry Ingredients:
Next, add the protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. Mix well until everything is combined. If the mixture feels too wet, gradually add in the rolled oats until you achieve a dough-like consistency that can be rolled into balls.
3. Add Optional Ingredients:
If you want to boost nutrition, stir in ground flaxseed or chia seeds. For that extra salted caramel taste, fold in your caramel syrup or sauce. It adds a sweet, delightful flavor!
4. Form the Balls:
Now it’s time to get rolling! Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined plate or tray. This part is fun!
5. Add Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle each ball lightly with flaky sea salt; this is where the “salted” part comes into play and enhances the flavor beautifully!
6. Chill and Store:
Pop the tray in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help the protein balls firm up. Once they are chilled, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep fresh in the fridge for up to a week, or you can freeze them for longer storage!
Enjoy your nutritious and tasty Salted Caramel Pumpkin Protein Balls anytime you need a little pick-me-up! They are not only healthy but also super scrumptious!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh pumpkin, roast your pumpkin until soft, scoop out the flesh, and puree it until smooth. This will give you a lovely flavor and freshness!
What Can I Substitute for the Nut Butter?
If you need a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter is an excellent alternative. Tahini or soy nut butter can also work, just keep in mind they may slightly alter the flavor.
How Should I Store These Protein Balls?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them; just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
Can I Omit the Sweetener?
While you can reduce or omit the sweetener, be aware that it will affect the overall flavor. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, consider using mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce for natural sweetness.
