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If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for snacks that are not only healthy but actually taste good. Well, I’ve got a winner for you! These Peanut Butter Pumpkin Protein Balls are everything you could want in a snack: no-bake, packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, peanut butter, and pumpkin puree, and absolutely delicious. Not to mention, they take less than 10 minutes to put together. Talk about a win-win, right?
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a perfect example of how you can eat healthy without sacrificing flavor. These protein balls are:
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, they’re perfect for a post-workout snack or mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
- No-Bake Simplicity: You don’t need an oven for these. Just mix, roll, and refrigerate!
- Customizable: I promised you versatile, and here’s proof! You can easily add in your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or chia seeds.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy healthy snacks on hand whenever you need them.
And, let me just tell you—the taste! Imagine the warm spiced flavor of pumpkin pie mixed with creamy peanut butter and a touch of sweetness. It’s like fall in a bite-sized ball!
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Pumpkin Protein Balls
You likely already have most of these ingredients sitting in your pantry:
- 1 cup rolled oats: Adds texture and fiber.
- ½ cup peanut butter: For creaminess and protein.
- ⅓ cup pumpkin puree: A seasonal favorite that gives these balls a soft texture and delicious flavor.
- ¼ cup honey: Naturally sweetens the recipe and holds everything together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For that extra depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice: A must-have for that cozy, autumnal flavor.
- ¼ cup protein powder (optional): Boosts the protein content, but these are still amazing without it!
How to Make Peanut Butter Pumpkin Protein Balls (Step-by-Step)
Tools You’ll Need:
- A large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- A baking sheet
- Airtight container for storage
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the oats, peanut butter, pumpkin puree, honey, vanilla extract, pumpkin spice, and protein powder (if using) until everything is well combined. It may take a little elbow grease to fully mix, but it’s worth it!
- Shape the balls: Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Chill: Pop the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes so the protein balls can firm up.
- Store and enjoy: Transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
That’s it! So easy, right?
Tips for Making the Perfect Protein Balls
- Consistency is key: If the mixture feels too sticky, add a bit more oats. If it’s too dry, a little more pumpkin puree or peanut butter will do the trick.
- Want to add some crunch? Feel free to throw in some chopped nuts or seeds like sunflower or chia seeds for a nice texture contrast.
- Sweetness level: If you prefer your snacks a little less sweet, you can reduce the honey to 2 tablespoons or substitute it with maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
What to Serve with Peanut Butter Pumpkin Protein Balls
These protein balls are great on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with:
- A smoothie for a quick breakfast.
- A cup of coffee or tea as an afternoon snack.
- Some Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars or Snickerdoodle Pumpkin Cookie Bars for a full spread of delicious treats.
Storage Instructions
The best part? These protein balls store beautifully. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage. Just take them out a few minutes before you plan to eat them so they have time to soften.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these protein balls vegan?
Absolutely! Just swap out the honey for maple syrup or agave, and you’ve got yourself a vegan-friendly snack.
Do I need to use protein powder?
Nope! The protein powder is optional. The peanut butter already provides a good amount of protein on its own.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can. However, rolled oats give a better texture, whereas quick oats will make the mixture a little more dough-like.
Wrapping It Up
There you have it—a delicious, easy, and nutritious snack that’s perfect for any time of day. These Peanut Butter Pumpkin Protein Balls are a surefire hit for anyone who loves the cozy flavors of pumpkin and the creamy goodness of peanut butter.
If you’re loving the pumpkin theme, be sure to also check out these No-Bake Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes for another amazing treat idea!
Don’t forget to share your creations with us! Tag me on Pinterest or Instagram with your photos, and leave a review below—I love hearing how you’re enjoying these recipes!
Nutritional Information (Per Ball)
- Calories: ~100
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fat: 6g
Peanut Butter Pumpkin Protein Balls: A Wholesome, No-Bake Snack!
- Total Time: 40 minutes (includes refrigeration)
- Yield: 12–15 protein balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These no-bake Peanut Butter Pumpkin Protein Balls are an easy, nutritious snack packed with oats, peanut butter, and pumpkin puree. Perfect for meal prep or a quick bite anytime, they’re simple to make, full of flavor, and can be customized to suit your preferences. Ready in minutes and ideal for on-the-go snacking!
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup peanut butter
- ⅓ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- ¼ cup protein powder (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the oats, peanut butter, pumpkin puree, honey, vanilla extract, pumpkin spice, and protein powder (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes until firm.
- Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Enjoy!
Notes
- Add-ins like chocolate chips, chia seeds, or chopped nuts can be mixed into the base for extra texture and flavor.
- To make it vegan, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave.
- If the mixture is too sticky, add more oats; if too dry, add more pumpkin puree or peanut butter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack, Healthy Treat
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg