These Pumpkin Banana Protein Balls are a tasty way to grab a boost of energy! With the sweet flavors of banana and pumpkin, plus a hint of spice, they’re perfect for a snack or post-workout treat.
Making these is super fun! I love how they are no-bake—just mix the ingredients and roll them into balls. They are a great way to use up ripe bananas and sneak some healthy protein into my day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Banana: Ripe bananas are essential here as they add natural sweetness and help bind the ingredients together. If you don’t have any ripe bananas, you can substitute with unsweetened applesauce for a similar texture.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree is super convenient, but you can also use fresh pumpkin—just roast and blend it! If pumpkin isn’t available, cooked sweet potato works well as an alternative.
Rolled Oats: These give the protein balls their chewy texture. Quick oats can be used in a pinch, though they may result in a slightly softer ball. If gluten-free is a priority, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.
Protein Powder: You can use any type of protein powder you like—whey, pea, or soy. If you want a nut-free version, skip the protein powder and add more oats or nut flour for additional texture and protein.
Nut Butter: Peanut butter adds flavor and binds the ingredients. If nut allergies are a concern, sunflower seed butter is a great alternative. You can also try tahini for a different twist!
Chocolate Chips: Feel free to omit these if you prefer a healthier option! Instead, you can add chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and sweetness.
How Do You Shape the Perfect Protein Balls?
Making uniform protein balls can be tricky at first. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best shape and size:
- After chilling the mix, use a tablespoon to scoop out portions. This helps keep the size consistent.
- Wet your hands slightly before rolling to prevent the mixture from sticking to your palms.
- For smooth balls, roll them between your palms quickly and gently. A quick motion helps create a nice round shape.
- Store your protein balls in the fridge after shaping. They firm up and hold their shape better when chilled.
How to Make Pumpkin Banana Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or pumpkin seeds (optional)
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes for preparation and then around 1 hour for chilling. Total time is about 1 hour and 20 minutes, including chilling time. It’s super simple and perfect if you’re looking for a quick and nutritious snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Banana Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mash the ripe banana well until it’s smooth. You want it to be nicely blended without any lumps. This will add sweetness and moisture to your protein balls.
2. Add Pumpkin and Peanut Butter:
Add the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and vanilla extract to the mashed banana. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This creates a yummy base for your protein balls!
3. Mix in the Spices and Oats:
Next, stir in the pumpkin pie spice and a pinch of salt. Then, add the rolled oats and protein powder to the wet mixture. Stir thoroughly until the mixture comes together and everything is well combined.
4. Add Optional Ingredients:
If you’d like, fold in the mini chocolate chips or pumpkin seeds at this point for a bit of extra flavor and crunch. This step is totally up to your personal taste!
5. Chill the Mixture:
Cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes. This will help it firm up a bit, making it easier to roll into balls.
6. Roll into Balls:
Once chilled, use your hands to scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place each ball on a tray or plate. Repeat this process until you’ve used all of the mixture!
7. Final Chill:
Refrigerate the protein balls for at least one hour before serving. This helps them set and makes them easy to grab when you need a snack.
8. Storage Tips:
Store your pumpkin banana protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage, which is perfect for meal prepping!
Enjoy these tasty, nutrient-packed Pumpkin Banana Protein Balls as a healthy snack or a quick post-workout treat! They’re not just delicious but loaded with good-for-you ingredients!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh pumpkin! Just roast a pumpkin piece until tender, then mash or puree it until smooth. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavor while using fresh ingredients!
What If the Mixture Is Too Wet?
If the mixture feels too wet to roll into balls, simply add a bit more rolled oats or protein powder until it reaches a consistency that’s easier to handle. Just remember to adjust the spices accordingly if you do!
Can I Replace the Peanut Butter with Something Nut-Free?
Absolutely! If you need a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter works great as a substitute. You could also try tahini for a different flavor profile while keeping the recipe nut-free.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer and transfer to a freezer bag for easy grabbing later!