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Pumpkin Protein Balls (No-Bake, Healthy, & Easy)

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy snack that tastes like fall, these Pumpkin Protein Balls are it! Packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, pumpkin puree, and almond butter, they come together in just 10 minutes—no baking required. Naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup and boosted with vanilla protein powder, these bites are the perfect balance of nutritious and delicious. Plus, they’re vegan, gluten-free, and family-friendly!

These energy bites are perfect for meal prep, lunchboxes, or a grab-and-go snack to keep you fueled all day long. They’re chewy, lightly spiced with pumpkin pie spice, and taste just like little bites of pumpkin pie.

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Energy Bites

  • Quick & Easy – Made in just 10 minutes with no baking.
  • Healthy & Wholesome – Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
  • Customizable – Swap nut butters, sweeteners, or mix-ins to make them your own.
  • Kid-Friendly – A lunchbox-friendly snack your kids will actually want to eat.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep – Store in the fridge or freezer for a ready-to-go snack anytime.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what makes these bites so tasty and nutritious:

  • Rolled oats – Provide structure and chewiness (use gluten-free oats if needed).
  • Vanilla protein powder – Adds extra protein and sweetness.
  • Pumpkin pie spice – For that warm fall flavor.
  • Almond butter – Helps bind everything together while adding creaminess.
  • Pumpkin puree – Real pumpkin for flavor and moisture.
  • Honey or maple syrup – Natural sweetness that keeps the bites soft.

👉 Optional mix-ins: mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, chia seeds, ground flaxseed, pumpkin seeds, or shredded coconut.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Mix the base – In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, almond butter, pumpkin puree, and honey (or maple syrup). Stir until well combined.
  2. Form the balls – Using a small cookie scoop, portion out about 24 bites. Roll each one into a smooth ball with your hands.
  3. Set – Place them on a parchment-lined plate or tray and freeze for 10 minutes to firm up.
  4. Enjoy! – Keep some in the fridge for snacking and freeze the rest for later.

Variations & Substitutions

  • Nut-Free – Use sunflower seed butter or tahini.
  • Low-Carb/Keto – Swap oats for almond flour and use a sugar-free sweetener.
  • Extra Protein – Add an extra scoop of protein powder if you want them more filling.
  • Chocolate Lovers – Stir in dark chocolate chips or dip the balls in melted chocolate.
  • Pumpkin Spice Boost – Add extra cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for more fall flavor.

Storage Tips

  • Room temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerator – Keeps fresh for up to 1 week.
  • Freezer – Freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw for a few minutes before eating.

Expert Tips

  • If the mixture is too dry, add more pumpkin puree or a splash of almond milk.
  • If it’s too wet, mix in extra oats or protein powder.
  • Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized bites.
  • Customize with your favorite mix-ins for variety!

More Pumpkin Snacks to Try

Pumpkin Protein Balls Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 22 balls

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup rolled oats (GF if needed)
  • 2 scoops vanilla protein powder
  • 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
  • ½ cup almond butter
  • ⅓ cup pumpkin puree
  • ¼ cup honey (or maple syrup for vegan)

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Stir until smooth.
  2. Scoop into 24 small balls and roll until round.
  3. Place on a lined tray and freeze for 10 minutes.
  4. Store in fridge or freezer and enjoy!

Nutrition (per ball): 65 calories | 7g carbs | 3g protein | 3g fat