Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls
These Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls are a no-bake, protein-rich snack with oats, pumpkin puree, nuts, and warming fall spices. Perfect for quick energy, meal prep, or a healthy treat, they’re naturally sweet, fiber-packed, and ready in just 15 minutes.
Equipment
- 1 Food Processor
- 1 Cookie Scoop (or tablespoon)
- 1 mixing bowl (optional)
Ingredients
- 1½ cups rolled oats quick or old-fashioned
- ⅓ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup walnuts or pecans
- 3 tablespoons almond butter
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
- 1 tablespoon hemp seeds
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice plus extra for garnish
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup vegan white chocolate chips optional
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients and equipment. Measure out 1½ cups of oats, ⅓ cup pumpkin puree, ¼ cup nuts (walnuts or pecans), 3 tablespoons almond butter, 3 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed, 1 tablespoon hemp seeds, 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ cup vegan white chocolate chips if using. Having everything ready ensures a smooth, stress-free process.
- Add Ingredients to Food Processor: Place the oats, pumpkin puree, nuts, almond butter, maple syrup, ground flaxseed, hemp seeds, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt into a food processor. This method allows all the ingredients to combine evenly and helps the mixture bind together perfectly.
- Pulse Until Mixture Comes Together: Turn on your food processor and pulse the mixture in short bursts. Scrape down the sides occasionally to ensure even blending. Continue processing until the mixture becomes sticky and cohesive, meaning it should hold together when pressed between your fingers. If the mixture feels too dry or crumbly, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Scoop the Mixture Evenly: Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion out the mixture. Aim for about 1–2 tablespoons per scoop. This ensures your energy balls are uniform in size and makes rolling easier.
- Roll into Balls: With clean hands, gently roll each portion into a smooth, round ball. Take your time to ensure they are compact and hold their shape well. The warmth of your hands will help bind the mixture together.
- Optional: Add Chocolate and Spice Topping: If you like, melt the vegan white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent burning. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the energy balls, then sprinkle a pinch of pumpkin pie spice on top for a decorative and flavorful touch.
- Chill or Serve Immediately: You can enjoy the energy balls right away, or for a firmer texture, place them in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes. Chilling helps them set and makes them easier to handle, especially if you plan to store them for later.
- Store Properly: Transfer the energy balls to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week. They also freeze well for up to 2–3 months, making them perfect for meal prep or quick snacks on busy days.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these energy balls as a quick breakfast on the go, a post-workout snack, or a healthy afternoon treat. Pair with a cup of tea, coffee, or plant-based milk for a satisfying and energizing boost.
- Enjoy Mindfully: Take a moment to appreciate the rich, cozy flavors of pumpkin, warming spices, and nutty undertones. Each bite delivers a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making these energy balls both delicious and nourishing.
Notes
- Always use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to control sweetness and spice levels. Homemade puree works beautifully too.
- For evenly sized balls, a cookie scoop is highly recommended—it also reduces mess and speeds up preparation.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add 1 teaspoon of water at a time; if too sticky, add a little extra oats.
- Optional add-ins like vegan chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut can add texture and flavor.
- These energy balls are naturally sweetened with maple syrup, so adjust sweetness based on preference or dietary needs.
- They are perfect for meal prep, as they stay fresh in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for longer storage.
