Name: Pumpkin Protein Balls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 21 min
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if desired); 2 scoops vanilla protein powder; 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 1/2 cup almond butter (or sunbutter/cashew butter); 1/3 cup pumpkin puree; 1/4 cup raw honey or maple syrup

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If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and nutritious snack that brings a taste of fall along with a protein boost, these Pumpkin Protein Balls are just what you need.

Table of Contents

Made with simple, wholesome ingredients like pumpkin puree, oats, and vanilla protein powder, these little bites are perfect for busy days, post-workout fuel, or satisfying those sweet cravings in a healthy way. Plus, they’re vegan, gluten-free, and no-bake ready in under 10 minutes!

Pumpkin Protein Balls

George Law

These no-bake Pumpkin Protein Balls are the perfect quick and healthy fall snack packed with oats, almond butter, pumpkin puree, and vanilla protein powder. Ready in under 10 minutes, they’re soft, flavorful, and naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 1

Total Time 21

Course Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 22 balls

Calories 65 kcal

Equipment

large mixing bowl
spoon or spatula
cookie scoop or tablespoon
plate or tray
freezer or refrigerator

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if desired)
2 scoops vanilla protein powder
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1/2 cup almond butter (or sunbutter/cashew butter)
1/3 cup pumpkin puree
1/4 cup raw honey or maple syrup

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, almond butter, pumpkin puree, and honey or maple syrup. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, roll about 24 small balls and shape them smoothly between your palms.
Place the balls on a tray and freeze for 10 minutes to firm up.

Notes

Keep in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. For extra flavor, roll them in coconut, cocoa, or cinnamon. Add chocolate chips, nuts, or seeds for variation. Enjoy straight from the fridge for the best texture!

Keyword healthy fall snack, high-protein vegan recipe, no-bake snack, pumpkin protein balls

What Makes These Pumpkin Protein Balls Special?

These protein balls combine the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie spice with the richness of almond butter and the natural sweetness of maple syrup or honey. Unlike many protein snacks loaded with artificial additives, this recipe uses just six clean, real-food ingredients. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, bringing snacks to a potluck, or need an energy boost on the go, they hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe : Pumpkin Protein Balls

Simple Ingredients: Just six pantry staples you probably already have.
No Baking Required: Ready in under 10 minutes with a quick chill.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options: Easily customize to fit dietary needs.
Protein-Packed: Great for muscle recovery or a midday pick-me-up.
Customizable: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or seeds for extra texture.
Perfect Portion Size: Small, bite-sized balls that control snacking.

Ingredients Pumpkin Protein Balls

1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if desired)
2 scoops vanilla protein powder
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
½ cup almond butter (or sunbutter/cashew butter as a substitute)
⅓ cup pumpkin puree
¼ cup raw honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, almond butter, pumpkin puree, and honey or maple syrup. Stir well to form a sticky and thick mixture.
Form Balls
Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, scoop out about 24 small balls. Roll them between your palms until smooth.
Chill
Place the balls on a plate or tray and freeze for 10 minutes to set. This helps them hold their shape.
Prep Tips
Use a large mixing bowl to avoid spillage.
If you don’t have a cookie scoop, use a tablespoon for consistent ball sizes.
Substitute almond butter with any nut or seed butter you prefer.
For a quicker version, start with pre-made pumpkin puree from a can.
To reduce prep cleanup, mix everything directly in a food-safe bowl.

Recipe Details

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 1 minute (for mixing, no baking required)
Freezing time: 10 minutes
Total time: 21 minutes
Servings: 22 protein balls
Calories: Approximately 65 kcal per ball

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating

Store your pumpkin protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a freezer-safe container—perfect for meal prep or quick snacks. They last up to 3 months frozen. Just thaw for a few minutes before enjoying, no reheating needed.

Serving Suggestions and Garnishes

Serve these protein balls as a quick breakfast bite, an energizing snack, or a healthy dessert option. Garnish ideas to elevate them:
Sprinkle with cinnamon or extra pumpkin pie spice.
Roll in shredded coconut or cocoa powder for surprise flavor layers.
Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea for a cozy fall treat.

Optional Add-Ins and Variations

For more texture and flavor, try mixing in:
Mini chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence.
Chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunch.
Toasted coconut flakes for tropical notes.
Chia seeds or flaxseeds for added omega-3 fatty acids.
If you want a low-carb option, skip the oats and increase protein powder, but watch the moisture to keep the mix rollable.

Cultural Note

Pumpkin dishes are a beloved part of autumn cuisine in American culture, tied closely to harvest time and festive holidays like Thanksgiving. These pumpkin protein balls put a nutritious and handy spin on traditional pumpkin flavors, combining them with modern superfoods to make snacking smarter and tastier.