Description

These easy, healthy pumpkin protein balls are a cozy fall snack packed with protein, fiber, and warm pumpkin spice flavor. They come together in minutes, require no baking, and are perfect for busy mornings, post-workout fuel, or lunchbox treats.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
1 cup rolled oats (quick oats work too)
1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
1/3 cup almond butter (or peanut butter, sunflower seed butter for nut-free)
2 tablespoons maple syrup
2 tablespoons chia seeds or ground flaxseed
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or mix cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional, use dairy-free if needed)

Instructions

Gather all ingredients and line a sheet pan or plate with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine oats, protein powder, chia seeds or flaxseed, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Stir to mix.
Add pumpkin puree, almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix well with a spatula until a thick, sticky dough forms.
If the mixture is too wet, add more oats or protein powder 1 tablespoon at a time. If too dry, add a bit more pumpkin or nut butter.
Fold in mini chocolate chips or other add-ins like dried cranberries or chopped nuts, if using.
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough and roll into about 16 balls, each about 1 inch in diameter.
Arrange the balls on the lined sheet pan or plate. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Enjoy straight from the fridge or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Notes

Chilling is essential for firm texture. Use creamy nut butter for best results. Adjust oats or protein powder for dough consistency. For gluten-free, use certified GF oats. Recipe freezes well for up to 2 months. Add-ins like dried cranberries, chopped pecans, or coconut can be used for variety.

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 ball
Calories: 70
Sugar: 2
Sodium: 30
Fat: 3
Saturated Fat: 0.5
Carbohydrates: 7
Fiber: 2
Protein: 4

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