These soft no-bake Pumpkin Protein Balls come together in just 10 minutes for the perfect cozy fall snack. Made in one bowl with wholesome ingredients like canned pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, rolled oats, and peanut butter, they’re super satisfying with around 9 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber per 2 balls (no protein powder needed!). 

You know when 3 o’clock hits and suddenly you need a snack immediately?! Preferably something a little sweet, that will also give you that much needed energy boost? Yah, me too, which is why tasty, satisfying, and easy to make snacks are a must in our weekly meal prep rotation, and these chocolate chip pumpkin protein bites have been hitting the spot! 

I’m officially ready for all things pumpkin spice, and luckily my family is on board, ‘cause there’s been a lot of recipe testing going on around here (speaking of which, this snackable pumpkin chocolate chip bread and these fluffy cottage cheese pumpkin protein pancakes are perfect to use up any leftover pumpkin puree!).

Let’s talk protein…

I wanted these to be higher in protein than typical energy balls, because that protein boost is what helps keep us full longer, and keep blood sugars stable for longer lasting energy too (a dietitian‘s dream). We have the hemp hearts, almond flour, and peanut butter combo to thank here, so there’s no need for protein powder, making them kid friendly too!

Pro tips to make this pumpkin snack crave-worthy

I tested these bites 4 times to get them just right and I found a few small tweaks made a big difference in texture, flavor, and nutrition:

• Use quick oats: I love using the smaller flake quick oats in these energy balls vs. old -fashioned rolled oats because they give a bit of a softer texture, but in a pinch either will work if you’ve already got rolled oats on hand! Either way you get the benefit of added fiber for this healthy snack.

Note: if you want these to be gluten-free, make sure to use certified gf oats! 

• Don’t skip the peanut butter: I initially tried leaving it out cause I was worried the flavor would take over, but the bites felt watery and didn’t hold together super well. 2 tablespoons was the perfect amount to add those satiating fats and give them the perfect biteable texture, without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.
  
• A little pumpkin goes a long way (except with the pumpkin spice, use the whole tablespoon + teaspoon listed for max flavour!): More pumpkin puree seemed like a good idea at first, but even ¾ of a cup made them too wet and tangy. Half of a cup is the perfect balance in this recipe for standout pumpkin flavor without the mush.

Let’s get rolling

3. Roll into balls.

I often double up the batch when making protein balls because it takes barely any extra work, but the benefit of having ready to go after-school snacks is priceless!

Watch How To Make It Here: