Easy Pumpkin Protein Balls – Healthy Fall Snack Recipe Packed with Flavor

When the air turns crisp and pumpkin spice makes its yearly comeback, there’s nothing better than a cozy, homemade snack that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. These Easy Pumpkin Protein Balls are the perfect autumn treat — soft, slightly sweet, warmly spiced, and packed with good-for-you ingredients.

Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast-on-the-go, a post-workout boost, or a wholesome mid-afternoon pick-me-up, this recipe brings all the fall flavors you love without any fuss. Best of all? No baking required — just mix, roll, and enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• ½ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ½ cup vanilla protein powder (or your favorite flavor)
• ⅓ cup natural peanut butter (or almond butter)
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt
• Optional: 2–3 tablespoons mini dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts for texture

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Mix the base – In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir until evenly distributed.
2. Add the wet ingredients – Add pumpkin puree, peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix well with a spatula or spoon until the mixture forms a thick dough.
   Tip: If it’s too dry, add 1–2 teaspoons of maple syrup or a splash of milk. If too wet, sprinkle in extra oats or protein powder.
3. Fold in extras – If using mini chocolate chips or nuts, gently fold them in at this stage.
4. Roll into balls – Using clean hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place on a parchment-lined plate or baking sheet.
5. Chill and set – Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow them to firm up and the flavors to meld.

Helpful Notes & Tips

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Consistency control: If the mixture feels too sticky to roll, chill it for 10–15 minutes before forming balls.
• Spice level: Adjust pumpkin pie spice to your preference — more for a cozy kick, less for a milder flavor.

Recipe Variations

1. Protein swap – Use chocolate or cinnamon roll protein powder for a flavor twist.
2. Nut-free version – Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter to make them school-friendly.
3. Extra fiber boost – Add 1 tablespoon of chia seeds or ground flaxseed for added nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

• With coffee or tea: These pair perfectly with a warm mug of chai or pumpkin spice latte.
• As a yogurt topper: Crumble a ball or two over Greek yogurt for a cozy breakfast.
• On the go: Pack a few in a small container for a portable snack during autumn adventures.

Recipe Info

Conclusion

These Easy Pumpkin Protein Balls are proof that healthy can be cozy, indulgent, and absolutely delicious. With just a handful of pantry staples and 10 minutes, you can create a fall-inspired snack your whole family will love. So roll up your sleeves, mix up a batch, and enjoy the taste of autumn — one bite at a time.