Pumpkin spice energy bites are the perfect healthy snack that can satisfy your sweet tooth. Made with real pumpkin puree, spices and old fashioned oats these pumpkin balls are perfect for meal prep. These little bites are a great way to get a few grams of protein in a delicious and healthy treat!
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Why These Pumpkin Protein Bites Are The Best!
I know I'm not the only one who is craving pumpkin recipes all year! Of course I can make these pumpkin banana muffins to help with those pumpkin cravings, but when I'm short on time I can whip up a batch of healthy pumpkin protein balls. It doesn't have to be pumpkin season to enjoy the flavors of these pumpkin spice protein balls.
This no bake recipe takes only a few minutes to pulse in the food processor and roll into balls. It's my favorite snack to keep in the fridge to grab before a workout.
Because this pumpkin protein ball recipe is made with medjool dates and has no added sugar, it is a great snack option for anyone looking for a heathy treat.
Key Ingredients
pumpkin puree- used canned 100% pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling has sugar and spices added which would make this too sweet.
protein powder- I like using a vanilla protein powder. You can use your favorite flavor and make the recipe vegan by using a plant-based protein powder.
Step-By-Step Instructions
First you will need to remove the pit from the dates. I use a sharp knife and cut a little slit lengthwise so that I can open the date and pop the pit out. You should also remove the little stem end too.
Next add the dates to a bowl of hot water. I just warm the water in the microwave and then toss the dates in while I'm preparing the other ingredients. By letting the dates soak for 10 minutes it will make it easier for your food processer to blend them.
Add the pumpkin puree, oats, protein powder and spices to the bowl of the food processor. Drain the water from the dates and add them with the remaining ingredients.
Pulse several times until the mixture is smooth and the dates are blended. You may need to scrape the sides of the bowl a few times to get everything blended well.
Once the mixture has blended, scrape it into a bowl and stir in the chocolate chips and remaining ¼ cup of oats.
Place the dough in the freezer for 10 minutes so that it can firm up a little.
Use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough into bite sized balls. The mixture will be a bit sticky but with use your hands to roll into balls and place in a container lined with parchment paper.
Storage Recomendations
Store the pumpkin protein bites in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 1 week. If packing for lunches, you can freeze the balls and pack frozen so they thaw when ready to eat. The frozen protein balls with stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Substitutions And Additions
spices- I prefer to make my own spice blend but you can use pumpkin pie spice. Add ¾ to 1 teaspoon for the best flavor.
chocolate chips- I like to use mini chocolate chips but white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips are also great options. If you are looking for a lower sugar option or vegan option use cacao nibs which is the cacao bean that are crushed into small pieces.
add ins- there are so many fun additions that can be added to the pumpkin spice energy balls. Pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, and coconut flakes are a few options to try.
Looking For Other Great High Protein Recipes? Try These!
Easy Peanut Butter Bliss Balls (Energy Bites)
Easy Vanilla Protein Baked Oats
Protein Overnight Oats {3 Ingredient Base}
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Pumpkin Protein Bites
Equipment
- food processer
Ingredients
- 6 dates, pits removed
- 1 and ¼ cups oats
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon ginger
- ⅛ teaspoon cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Cut a slit lengthwise through the date to remove the pits and stem.
- Add the dates to a bowl of warm water to soak while preparing the remaining ingredients.
- Add the pumpkin puree, 1 cup of oats, protein powder, salt and spices to the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until a smooth consistency and the dates are chopped up. You may need to open the lid and scrape the sides of the bowl to get everything moving and smooth.
- Scrape the pumpkin mixture into a bowl. Add the remaining ¼ cup of oats and chocolate chips and stir. Place in the freezer to firm for 10 minutes.
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the dough. Use your hands to roll into balls and place in a parchment lined container.
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