Craving a quick, cozy snack that screams fall? Pumpkin Protein Balls are soft, spiced Fall Energy Bites packed with pumpkin flavor and protein to keep you energized. These no-bake pumpkin bites are ready in minutes, perfect for busy mornings, post-workout boosts, or healthy treats. With simple pantry ingredients, these spiced protein snacks are easy to make and endlessly customizable. Let’s whip up Pumpkin Protein Balls for a delicious, autumn-inspired snack!
Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Protein Balls
- No-Bake Ease: Ready in under 15 minutes with no oven needed.
- Fall Flavors: Pumpkin and warm spices make cozy autumn energy balls.
- Healthy Boost: Protein-packed for satisfying spiced protein snacks.
- Customizable: Add chocolate chips or nuts for personalized no-bake pumpkin bites.
- Portable: Perfect for lunchboxes, workouts, or on-the-go autumn energy balls.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Protein Balls
Here’s what you’ll need for these spiced protein snacks (makes ~16 balls):
- ½ cup (120g) canned pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
- ⅓ cup (85g) natural almond or peanut butter
- ¼ cup (60ml) maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup (50g) vanilla whey or plant-based protein powder
- ¾ cup (75g) rolled oats (plus ¼ cup for rolling, optional)
- 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips or chopped pecans (optional)
- 1 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional)
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Parchment paper
- Plate or tray
- Cookie scoop (optional)
Ingredient Tips
- Pumpkin Puree: Use pure pumpkin, not pie filling, for Pumpkin Protein Balls to avoid excess sugar in autumn energy balls.
- Nut Butter: Almond or peanut butter binds spiced protein snacks; cashew butter adds creaminess.
- Protein Powder: Whey blends smoothly; plant-based works for vegan no-bake pumpkin bites.
- Oats: Rolled oats add chew to autumn energy balls; avoid quick oats for better texture.
- Maple Syrup: Adds sweetness; honey works but may alter flavor in spiced protein snacks.
Directions for Pumpkin Protein Balls
Let’s create these autumn energy balls!
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, I combine ½ cup pumpkin puree, ⅓ cup nut butter, ¼ cup maple syrup, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice, and ¼ tsp salt. I stir until smooth, creating a creamy base for these spiced protein snacks.
Add Dry Ingredients
I mix in ½ cup protein powder, letting it thicken slightly. Then, I fold in ¾ cup rolled oats until the dough holds its shape when scooped. If too sticky, I add 1 tbsp oats; if too dry, I drizzle in 1 tsp maple syrup for perfect no-bake pumpkin bites.
Incorporate Mix-Ins
I stir in 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips or chopped pecans (if using) for texture in these autumn energy balls. For extra fiber, I add 1 tbsp chia or flaxseeds.
Shape the Balls
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, I portion the dough and roll into 1-inch balls, making ~16. If sticky, I dampen my hands or chill the dough for 5 minutes for smooth Pumpkin Protein Balls.
Roll and Chill
Optionally, I roll the balls in ¼ cup extra oats for a crunchy coating. I place them on a parchment-lined plate and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to set, enhancing the flavor of these spiced protein snacks.
Serve
I serve these autumn energy balls chilled or at room temperature, enjoying their soft, spiced goodness as a quick snack or breakfast boost.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~40 minutes
- Servings: ~16 balls (2–3 per serving)
- Calories: ~90–110 kcal per ball
- Macros per Ball: 10g carbs, 4g protein, 4g fat, 1g fiber
Variations for Pumpkin Protein Balls
Try these twists on these spiced protein snacks:
- Chocolate Boost: Use chocolate protein powder for richer no-bake pumpkin bites.
- Nut-Free: Swap nut butter for sunflower seed butter, inspired by Food and Tips’ Vegan Breakfast Cookies.
- Coconut Crunch: Roll in shredded coconut instead of oats for tropical autumn energy balls.
- Spice Swap: Use cinnamon and nutmeg for varied spiced protein snacks.
- Dried Fruit: Add 2 tbsp dried cranberries for chewy no-bake pumpkin bites.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with Food and Tips’ Vanilla Raspberry Iced Latte for a cozy contrast.
- Serve with Food and Tips’ Cucumber Blueberry Feta Salad for a fresh balance.
- Enjoy with Food and Tips’ Coconut Cooler for a refreshing twist.
Storage
I store these autumn energy balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days, using parchment between layers to prevent sticking. For freezing, I place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month, thawing in the fridge overnight for fresh spiced protein snacks.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Arrange these no-bake pumpkin bites on a fall-themed platter for charm.
- Garnish: Press a chocolate chip on top or dust with cinnamon for flair.
- Pairing: Enjoy with tea or Food and Tips’ Vanilla Raspberry Iced Latte for balance.
- Portion Size: 2–3 balls per person for a snack or 4 for a breakfast boost.
- Occasions: Perfect for lunchboxes, fall gatherings, or post-workout fuel.
FAQs About Pumpkin Protein Balls
Here are answers to common questions about this dish:
Can I make Pumpkin Protein Balls without protein powder?
Yes, increase oats to 1 cup and add 1 tbsp nut butter for binding autumn energy balls.
How do I fix sticky dough?
Add 1 tbsp oats or chill for 5 minutes for easier shaping of spiced protein snacks.
Can I freeze these balls?
Yes, freeze for up to 1 month; thaw overnight for fresh no-bake pumpkin bites.
What nut butter works best?
Almond or peanut butter binds well; sunflower seed butter suits nut-free autumn energy balls.
How do I keep them from crumbling?
Ensure a creamy base and chill for 30 minutes to set Pumpkin Protein Balls.
More Delicious Snack Recipes You’ll Love
- Easy Snack Plate Ideas
- Deep Fried Mushrooms: A Crispy Summer Snack
- Grilled Cheese Roll Ups – A Fun Independence Day Snack
Conclusion
Pumpkin Protein Balls are a quick, healthy, and cozy way to enjoy fall flavors any time. These spiced protein snacks are perfect for busy days or festive gatherings. Whip up these no-bake pumpkin bites, customize with your favorite mix-ins, and savor a delicious, energizing treat!
Pumpkin Protein Balls
Ingredients
- ½ cup 120g canned pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
- ⅓ cup 85g natural almond or peanut butter
- ¼ cup 60ml maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup 50g vanilla whey or plant-based protein powder
- ¾ cup 75g rolled oats (plus ¼ cup for rolling, optional)
- 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips or chopped pecans optional
- 1 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds optional
Instructions
Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, I combine ½ cup pumpkin puree, ⅓ cup nut butter, ¼ cup maple syrup, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice, and ¼ tsp salt. I stir until smooth, creating a creamy base for these spiced protein snacks.
Add Dry Ingredients
- I mix in ½ cup protein powder, letting it thicken slightly. Then, I fold in ¾ cup rolled oats until the dough holds its shape when scooped. If too sticky, I add 1 tbsp oats; if too dry, I drizzle in 1 tsp maple syrup for perfect no-bake pumpkin bites.
Incorporate Mix-Ins
- I stir in 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips or chopped pecans (if using) for texture in these autumn energy balls. For extra fiber, I add 1 tbsp chia or flaxseeds.
Shape the Balls
- Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, I portion the dough and roll into 1-inch balls, making ~16. If sticky, I dampen my hands or chill the dough for 5 minutes for smooth Pumpkin Protein Balls.
Roll and Chill
- Optionally, I roll the balls in ¼ cup extra oats for a crunchy coating. I place them on a parchment-lined plate and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to set, enhancing the flavor of these spiced protein snacks.
Serve
- I serve these autumn energy balls chilled or at room temperature, enjoying their soft, spiced goodness as a quick snack or breakfast boost.
Notes
You can adjust the texture by changing the oat ratio or chilling the mixture slightly before rolling. Use certified gluten-free oats if needed. Protein powder sweetness and flavor may vary, so adjust maple syrup to taste if necessary.
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