Description
These Easy No Bake Protein Pumpkin Balls are a delicious, healthy snack packed with plant-based protein and seasonal pumpkin flavor. Made with chickpeas, oat flour, and protein powder, they're naturally sweetened with maple syrup and subtly spiced with pumpkin pie spice and vanilla. Perfect for a quick energy boost or a guilt-free treat, these no-bake balls come together in just 10 minutes and require no oven – just a food processor and refrigerator chilling.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 (15.5 oz) Can Chickpeas or White Beans of Choice, drained and rinsed
- 1 Cup Oat Flour
- 2 Scoops (about 100 g or 2 servings) Plant-Based Cinnamon or Vanilla Protein Powder
- 3/4 Cup Pumpkin Puree
- 1/4 Cup Maple Syrup
- 1/4 - 1/2 Teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice
- 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1/8 Teaspoon Salt
Add-ins
- 1/2 Cup Chopped Pecans or Vegan Mini Chocolate Chips
Instructions
- Prepare Tray: Line a quarter sheet pan with parchment paper or use a couple of plates. Place it in the refrigerator to chill and make room.
- Strain the Chickpeas: Open the can of chickpeas and rinse them thoroughly under cold water in a strainer until the water runs clear to remove excess sodium and canned taste.
- Add To Food Processor: Add all ingredients to the food processor except the pecans or mini chocolate chips. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure uniform mixing. Then add pecans or chocolate chips and pulse briefly to incorporate some chunks.
- Shape into Balls: Using a small to medium cookie scoop, portion out even amounts of the dough onto the prepared tray. Roll each portion into a ball shape with your hands for uniformity.
- Add More Chunks (Optional): For extra texture and visual appeal, gently press additional pecans or mini chocolate chips onto the outside of each protein ball.
- Chill: Place the tray in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes to allow the balls to firm up and flavors to meld.
- Enjoy and Store: Remove the protein balls from the tray and transfer them to a resealable container. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week for best freshness.
Notes
- Use canned chickpeas for convenience, but ensure they are rinsed thoroughly to reduce sodium.
- Oat flour can be substituted with almond flour for a slightly different texture, but it may alter macronutrient content.
- Choose plant-based protein powder flavors like cinnamon or vanilla for complementary taste.
- Refrigerate protein balls properly to maintain firmness and freshness.
- You can freeze these balls for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge before eating.
