Name: Pumpkin Protein Balls (No-Bake Energy Bites)
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats (or quick oats/gluten-free oats); 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder; 1/2 cup pumpkin puree; 1/3 cup creamy almond butter (or peanut, cashew, or sunflower seed butter); 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey; 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice blend or ground cinnamon

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These pumpkin protein balls are quick, no-bake energy bites packed with wholesome ingredients. Made with pumpkin puree, oats, nut butter, protein powder, and a touch of natural sweetness, they’re a healthy and satisfying snack that comes together in minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fast, flexible, and full of flavor. These protein balls taste like little bites of pumpkin pie but are loaded with nutrients and protein to keep me energized. I like that they’re no-bake and only take 10 minutes, making them one of the easiest snacks to prep for busy days. They’re also perfect for kids’ lunchboxes, post-workout fuel, or a quick grab-and-go breakfast. Pumpkin Protein Balls (No-Bake Energy Bites)

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Rolled oats (or quick oats/gluten-free oats)
Vanilla protein powder
Pumpkin puree
Creamy almond butter (or peanut, cashew, or sunflower seed butter)
Maple syrup or honey
Pumpkin spice blend or cinnamon

Directions

I combine rolled oats, protein powder, and pumpkin spice in a large bowl.
In another bowl, I whisk together pumpkin puree, almond butter, and maple syrup until smooth.
I pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
If the mixture feels too sticky, I add a few more oats; if it’s too dry, I add a touch more pumpkin puree or nut butter.
I roll the mixture into bite-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
I chill them in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to firm up before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12–14 protein balls, depending on size. It takes only 10 minutes to prep and a short chill time, so I can enjoy them quickly.

Variations

Sometimes I roll the protein balls in shredded coconut, cocoa powder, or crushed nuts for extra flavor. If I want them extra sweet, I fold in mini chocolate chips or dried cranberries. I also like using sunflower seed butter to make them nut-free and safe for school snacks. Pumpkin Protein Balls (No-Bake Energy Bites)

storage/reheating

I store these pumpkin protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They also freeze well for up to 2 months—I just thaw them at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.

FAQs

Do I have to use protein powder?

No, I sometimes leave it out and just use more oats for structure.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, I use maple syrup instead of honey and a plant-based protein powder to keep them vegan.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, quick oats work just as well and give the protein balls a slightly softer texture.

How do I keep the mixture from being too sticky?

I add more oats or chill the dough for a few minutes before rolling to make it easier to handle.

Can I make them nut-free?

Yes, I use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of almond or peanut butter for a nut-free version.

Conclusion

I find pumpkin protein balls to be the perfect blend of healthy and indulgent. They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and packed with flavor that satisfies my pumpkin spice cravings. Whether I enjoy them as a snack, pre-workout boost, or sweet bite after dinner, they’re always a hit.