Description

These healthy pumpkin protein balls are a quick, no-bake fall snack packed with pumpkin spice flavor, protein, and fiber. Perfect for busy days, post-workout fuel, or a cozy treat, they’re endlessly adaptable and loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup (120g) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
1 cup (90g) old-fashioned rolled oats
1/2 cup (60g) vanilla protein powder (plant-based or whey)
1/3 cup (80g) nut butter (almond, peanut, or sunflower seed butter)
3 tablespoons (45ml) maple syrup or honey
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or 1.5 tsp cinnamon + 1/4 tsp nutmeg + 1/4 tsp ginger)
2 tablespoons chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional)
1/4 cup (40g) mini chocolate chips or dried cranberries (optional)
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Gather and measure all ingredients: pumpkin puree, oats, protein powder, nut butter, maple syrup, pumpkin spice, chia seeds, chocolate chips, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, nut butter, and maple syrup. Stir until creamy and fully combined.
Add oats, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Stir until the dough starts coming together. Add chia seeds or flaxseeds if using.
Fold in mini chocolate chips or dried cranberries if desired. The dough will be thick and possibly sticky.
Check the texture: the dough should hold together when pressed. If too dry, add 1 tablespoon more pumpkin puree. If too sticky, add extra oats or protein powder, 1 tablespoon at a time.
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough. Roll between your hands to form 18-20 balls (about 1 inch each). Slightly damp hands help prevent sticking.
Place balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to firm up.
Transfer chilled balls to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature ingredients. Adjust sweetness and spice to taste, and don’t overmix. If dough is too sticky, chill before rolling. Store in the fridge for best texture; flavor deepens after a day. Easily made gluten-free with certified GF oats and vegan with maple syrup and plant-based protein powder.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Snack
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 ball (about 20g)
Calories: 70
Sugar: 3
Sodium: 30
Fat: 3
Saturated Fat: 0.5
Carbohydrates: 8
Fiber: 2
Protein: 3

Keywords: pumpkin protein balls, healthy snack, fall snack, no bake, protein bites, gluten free, vegan, easy snack, pumpkin spice, energy balls