Pumpkin Protein Balls (No-Bake, Healthy Snack)

Name: Pumpkin Protein Balls
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; ½ cup pumpkin puree; ½ cup protein powder (any flavor); ¼ cup nut butter (almond, peanut, or sunflower seed); 3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey; 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice or cinnamon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Optional: mini chocolate chips, dried cranberries, shredded coconut, or crushed pecans

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The cozy taste of pumpkin spice packed into a quick bite you can grab anytime. These pumpkin protein balls are soft, chewy, and made in minutes with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for busy mornings, after-school snacks, or a pre-gym energy boost, they bring the warmth of pumpkin flavor in a simple no-bake recipe.

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Protein Balls

Pumpkin protein balls are ready in under 10 minutes with just a handful of pantry staples. They’re loaded with protein and fiber to keep you satisfied and give you steady energy through the day. Kids love them because they taste like little cookie bites, while adults appreciate that they’re healthy and portable. They fit perfectly into meal prep, tuck into lunchboxes, or even serve as a lighter treat for pumpkin season. Just like the comfort you find in these pumpkin oatmeal cream pies, they’re sweet without being heavy and perfect for sharing.

pumpkin protein balls stacked in white ramekin with oats

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pumpkin puree for seasonal flavor and soft texture
Rolled oats for structure and fiber
Protein powder to boost nutrition and make them filling
honey for natural sweetness
Nut butter such as almond, peanut, or sunflower seed butter for creaminess
Pumpkin spice or cinnamon for warm, cozy flavor
Vanilla extract to round out the taste
Optional Add-ins:
Mini chocolate chips
Dried cranberries
Flaxseed or chia seeds for extra fiber

pumpkin protein balls ingredients in glass bowl almond butter pumpkin oats protein powder cinnamon vanilla

How to Make Pumpkin Protein Balls

Step 1 Mix the Base

Stir oats, protein powder, and pumpkin spice together in a mixing bowl.

Step 2 Add Pumpkin and Wet Ingredients

Add pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, nut butter, and maple syrup. Mix until everything comes together in a sticky dough.

Step 3 Shape Into Balls

Scoop a tablespoon of dough, roll it gently between your hands, and place on a plate or baking sheet. Repeat with the rest of the mixture.

Step 4 Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the pumpkin protein balls for at least 20 minutes so they firm up. Store them in the fridge and grab whenever you need a healthy snack.

They’re as quick and simple as making pumpkin pancakes on a crisp fall morning.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Pumpkin protein balls keep well in the refrigerator for up to one week in an airtight container. For long-term storage, freeze them on a baking sheet, then move to a freezer bag once solid. They’ll last up to three months and thaw in just a few minutes at room temperature. Pack them into small containers for kids’ snacks, or toss into your gym bag for a convenient post-workout bite.

Fun Variations to Try

Stir in mini chocolate chips for a dessert-like twist
Roll the balls in shredded coconut or crushed pecans for extra crunch
Add flaxseed or chia seeds for more fiber and omega-3s
Make them sweeter by blending in a few Medjool dates
Try different protein powders for unique flavors, such as vanilla chai or chocolate

These little bites are just as customizable as baked pumpkin donuts, which means you’ll never get bored of them.

Nutrition Benefits

Each pumpkin protein ball is packed with protein to fuel your muscles and fiber to keep you satisfied. Compared to store-bought energy bars, they’re lower in sugar and free from artificial ingredients. Pumpkin adds antioxidants like beta-carotene plus essential vitamins that support your immune system, making them a seasonal snack with benefits.

FAQ

Can I make these vegan or dairy free

Yes, simply use a plant-based protein powder and maple syrup instead of honey.

Do I need protein powder

No, you can leave it out and add a bit more oats to balance the texture. They’ll still be delicious, just slightly lower in protein.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of puree

It’s best to use plain puree since pumpkin pie filling has added sugar and spices that can make the mixture too wet and overly sweet.

Conclusion

Pumpkin protein balls are a quick and cozy way to enjoy pumpkin flavor while staying fueled. They’re no-bake, portable, and endlessly adaptable, perfect for snacking or meal prep. Try them this week, share with a friend, and don’t forget to pin the recipe for later.

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