Name: Pumpkin Spice Energy Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups rolled oats (gluten-free if needed); ½ cup pure pumpkin puree; ½ cup natural peanut butter or almond butter; ⅓ cup maple syrup (or honey); ¼ cup chia seeds; 1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; ½ cup dark chocolate chips (mini preferred); Optional: extra oats for rolling or coating in crushed nuts/coconut

These Pumpkin Spice Energy Bites are a delicious, no-bake healthy dessert that captures all the cozy flavors of fall in a bite-sized treat. Made with real pumpkin puree, nut butter, oats, and warm spices, they’re naturally sweetened and packed with nutrients for a guilt-free indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

As an experienced chef, I adore these bites because they deliver that irresistible pumpkin spice latte vibe without any baking, refined sugar crashes, or complicated steps. They’re wholesome yet indulgent—think chewy oats, creamy nut butter, and pops of chocolate or nuts in every bite.

Perfect for busy days, they provide sustained energy from fiber, healthy fats, and protein, making them ideal as a post-workout snack, afternoon pick-me-up, or even a light breakfast on the go.

Kids and adults alike devour them, and they’re naturally gluten-free (with certified oats) and easily vegan. The warm cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves create that nostalgic fall comfort, while keeping things light and nutritious—no oven required means they’re ready fast and cleanup is a breeze!

Yield: 24 energy bites

Pumpkin Spice Energy Bites

No-bake pumpkin spice energy bites: chewy, spiced, healthy fall treats ready in minutes.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Additional Time 30 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

1 ½ cups rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
½ cup pure pumpkin puree
½ cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
⅓ cup maple syrup (or honey)
¼ cup chia seeds
1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
½ cup dark chocolate chips (mini preferred)
Optional: extra oats for rolling or coating in crushed nuts/coconut

Instructions

Grab a large mixing bowl—your cozy kitchen adventure starts here! Add the rolled oats, chia seeds, pumpkin pie spice, and that pinch of salt. Give them a quick stir to mingle those warm spices with the hearty oats.
Scoop in the creamy peanut butter (or your favorite nut butter)—it's the magic binder that makes everything come together lusciously.
Spoon the pure pumpkin puree right on top; its vibrant orange hue is so inviting and promises all that classic fall flavor.
Drizzle in the maple syrup for natural sweetness and a touch of caramel richness—mmm, irresistible!
Add the vanilla extract; this little splash elevates the whole aroma to cozy perfection.
Now the fun part—mix everything thoroughly with a sturdy spoon or your clean hands! It’ll start sticky but soon form a thick, dough-like consistency. If it’s too wet, sprinkle in 1-2 extra tablespoons of oats.
Fold in those dark chocolate chips gently so they stay whole and melty in every bite—pure bliss!
Pop the bowl in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to firm up; this makes rolling a dream and prevents sticky fingers.
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll into neat balls between your palms (damp hands help!). For extra charm, roll some in extra oats, crushed nuts, or a light dusting of pumpkin spice.
Arrange on a parchment-lined plate or tray, then chill again for 10-15 minutes to set. Enjoy one (or three!)—you’ve just created the ultimate healthy fall treat!

Notes

These are naturally vegan if using maple syrup and dairy-free chocolate chips. Always use pure pumpkin puree for best texture. Adjust sweetness to taste—start with less syrup if your nut butter is sweet.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 90Total Fat 5gSaturated Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 4gCholesterol 0mgSodium 20mgCarbohydrates 9gFiber 2gSugar 5gProtein 2g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Chill the mixture for 20-30 minutes before rolling to make it less sticky and easier to shape into perfect balls. Use slightly damp hands or lightly oil them to prevent the dough from clinging.

If the mixture feels too wet, add extra oats a tablespoon at a time; if too dry, a splash more maple syrup or nut butter does the trick. For extra texture, toast the oats lightly in a dry pan first. Roll in extra toppings like crushed nuts, coconut, or a light dusting of pumpkin pie spice for a pretty finish. Store in the fridge to keep them firm—these taste even better after a day as flavors meld!

Ingredients Notes

Use pure pumpkin puree (not pie filling, which has added sugar and spices). Creamy natural peanut butter or almond butter works best for binding and flavor—avoid no-stir varieties if possible, as they separate. Rolled oats provide chewiness and fiber; quick oats make a denser bite.

Maple syrup adds natural sweetness with caramel notes—honey works too but changes the vegan status. Chia seeds boost omega-3s and help bind. Pumpkin pie spice is a convenient blend (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, allspice); homemade allows tweaking intensity.

Dark chocolate chips offer a bittersweet contrast—mini ones distribute evenly. Vanilla extract enhances warmth, and a pinch of salt balances sweetness beautifully.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap peanut butter for almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter for nut-free options. Make them protein-packed by adding ¼-½ cup vanilla protein powder (adjust liquid if needed).

For chocolate lovers, mix in more chips or use white chocolate/cacao nibs. Add dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates for fruitiness. Go seed-heavy with extra flax or hemp seeds instead of chia. For lower sugar, reduce maple syrup and add mashed banana.

Roll in crushed graham crackers for pie crust vibes, or coconut flakes for tropical twist. Gluten-free certified oats keep it safe; for grain-free, use ground nuts or shredded coconut base. Spice it up with extra ginger for zing or cardamom for exotic flair.

Storage Options

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week—they stay fresh and firm. Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag or container; thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before enjoying. Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’re perfect for meal prep—make a double batch and grab as needed!