Theses pumpkin protein balls are the perfect snack to grab when you're on the go! I am always trying to get as many nutrients in as possible, so I love that these have pumpkin, chia seeds, oats, pumpkin seeds, almond butter and protein! They're a fun way to get in more magnesium, fiber and protein. Plus, they only take 10 minutes to whip up in one bowl. I don't know about you, but those are my favorite kind of recipes! I made sure the texture of these are just right because nothing is worse than crumbly energy bites.
If you love pumpkin recipes, you'll also love my pumpkin oatmeal cookies, pumpkin banana chocolate chip muffins and pumpkin spice chai latte.
Why You'll Love These Pumpkin Energy Balls
These pumpkin protein balls are so easy to make! They are packed with pantry staples that you probably already have on hand and budget-friendly. All you need to make these is one bowl and you don't need any appliances like a food processor, blender or an oven. They are no bake!
This delicious treat is perfect for pumpkin season and packed with pumpkin spice flavor. Pumpkin and chocolate is one of my favorite flavor combinations! These are naturally gluten-free and dairy-free and they store well in the fridge or the freezer. These bites are perfect for meal prepping!
Ingredients You'll Need
- Oats: Oats make up the base of this recipe. If you are gluten-free, make sure you use gluten-free certified oats.
- Chia seeds: Add a boost of fiber and omega 3s.
- Pumpkin seeds: For crunch, protein and magnesium.
- Mini chocolate chips: Pumpkin and chocolate is the best flavor combination.
- Almond butter: The glue that helps hold the protein balls together.
- Maple syrup: Adds sweetness and helps everything stick together.
- Flaxseed: Adds fiber and nutrients!
- Pumpkin puree: Helps with the cozy pumpkin pie flavor!
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and flavor.
- Pumpkin pie spice: Amplifies the pumpkin flavor!
- Protein powder: Adds protein!
Recipe Variations
- Nut-free: To make these nut-free, swap the almond butter for sunflower seed or pumpkin butter.
- Mix-ins: Try adding coconut flakes, raisins, cranberries, white chocolate or chopped nuts. For a chocolatey flavor, add cocoa powder.
- Texture: Pulse your oats in a food processor if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Sweetener: I used maple syrup in this recipe, but feel free to use honey or agave.
How To Make Protein Balls
Step 1: Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
Step 2: Roll into 1 inch balls and refrigerate until firm.
Recipe Tips
- Use gloves to roll the balls or wet your hands so the mixture doesn't stick to your palms.
- If the mixture is too dry, add more nut butter and/or maple syrup.
- If the mixture is too wet, add more oats and/or flaxseed.
Storage and Make Ahead Tips
Store these pumpkin protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These make a great meal prep for the week!
You can also freeze these energy bites for up to 3 months.
Recipe FAQs
If the dough is too dry, add more nut butter and/or maple syrup.
If the dough is too sticky, add more oats and/or flaxseed.
Yes, these energy balls are so customizable! Try adding white chocolate chips, raisins, chopped nuts and more.
Related Recipes
Be sure to try these delicious snack ideas next:
If you make these gluten-free pumpkin protein balls and love them, I would really appreciate a 5 star review! I also love seeing your creations so please tag me on Instagram or Tik Tok.
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Pumpkin Protein Balls (Gluten-Free)
Equipment
- 1 bowl
- 1 spoon
- 1 baking sheet
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups oats
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 3 tbsp flaxseed
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 cup protein powder (optional)
Instructions
- Combine ingredients in a bowl.
- Roll into 1 inch balls and place on a baking sheet.
- Refrigerate until firm.
Notes
- Use gloves to roll the balls or wet your hands so the mixture doesn't stick to your palms.
- If the mixture is too dry, add more nut butter and/or maple syrup.
- If the mixture is too wet, add more oats and/or flaxseed.
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