Pumpkin Spice Protein Balls Recipe
These delightful no-bake pumpkin spice protein balls capture the warm, comforting essence of fall with real pumpkin puree, aromatic pumpkin pie spice, creamy nut butter, and vanilla protein powder. Naturally sweetened and rolled in oats or mini chocolate chips, they offer a quick, nutritious dessert or snack that’s high in protein and fiber without any baking required.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
You’ll absolutely adore these pumpkin spice protein balls because they taste just like pumpkin pie or cookie dough but in a convenient, bite-sized form — without turning on the oven!
They’re incredibly simple to whip up in under 15 minutes using pantry staples, making them perfect for busy weekdays, post-workout refueling, or satisfying sweet cravings in a healthier way. Each ball delivers a satisfying dose of protein to keep you full longer, plus healthy fats and fiber from nut butter and oats for steady energy.
The cozy blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves creates that irresistible autumn flavor everyone craves, while optional mini chocolate chips add a touch of indulgence. They’re customizable, kid-friendly, gluten-free friendly, and far more nutritious than store-bought treats — basically the ultimate guilt-free fall dessert you’ll want to make on repeat!
Pumpkin Spice Protein Balls Recipe
No-bake pumpkin spice protein balls bursting with cozy fall flavors, packed with protein, and ready in minutes for a guilt-free treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
- ½ cup vanilla protein powder (whey, plant-based, or your favorite)
- ½ cup creamy almond butter or peanut butter (natural, no-stir preferred)
- ⅓ cup canned pumpkin puree (pure pumpkin, not pie filling)
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste for sweetness)
- 1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or homemade blend: cinnamon + ginger + nutmeg + cloves)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips (optional, dairy-free if desired)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional coatings: extra rolled oats, crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or more mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Grab a large mixing bowl — this is where the magic happens! Add your rolled oats first as the hearty base.
- Scoop in the vanilla protein powder — it brings that creamy, dessert-like flavor and boosts the nutrition.
- Spoon in the creamy almond butter (or peanut butter) — this makes everything deliciously sticky and rich.
- Add the canned pumpkin puree — hello, real pumpkin goodness and that beautiful orange hue!
- Drizzle in the maple syrup or honey — it sweetens everything naturally and helps bind the mixture.
- Sprinkle the pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt — now we’re talking cozy fall vibes!
- If you love a little chocolatey surprise, toss in those mini chocolate chips — they add the best texture and indulgence.
- Using a sturdy spoon (or your clean hands!), mix everything together until a thick, dough-like consistency forms. If it feels too dry, add 1 teaspoon of water or extra nut butter; if too wet, sprinkle in more oats.
- Pop the bowl in the fridge for 10-15 minutes — this chills the mixture so it’s easier to roll into perfect little balls.
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions, roll them between your palms into smooth balls, and (optional) roll in extra oats, coconut, or chocolate chips for extra charm. Store and enjoy your adorable pumpkin spice treats!
Notes
Use pure pumpkin puree (not sweetened pumpkin pie filling) to keep the flavor balanced and avoid extra sugar. If your nut butter is very thick, microwave it for 10-15 seconds to make mixing easier. Protein powder brands vary in absorbency — start with the listed amount and adjust texture as needed. These taste even better the next day as the spices meld!
Nutrition Information
Yield
20Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 131Total Fat 5gSaturated Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 4gCholesterol 1mgSodium 41mgCarbohydrates 15gFiber 2gSugar 4gProtein 8g
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 briefly before rolling to prevent sticking to your hands — wet your palms slightly if needed. For perfectly round balls, use a small cookie scoop. Taste the mixture before rolling and adjust sweetness or spice. If you want extra protein, add 1-2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed or chia seeds. Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh — they actually improve in flavor after a day in the fridge!
Ingredients Notes:
Old-fashioned rolled oats provide structure, fiber, and that classic chewy texture — quick oats work too but yield a softer result. Vanilla protein powder adds sweetness and creaminess while bumping up the protein content (aim for 20-25g per scoop).
Creamy nut butter (almond or peanut) acts as the binder and delivers healthy fats — natural versions without added sugar or oil are best. Canned pumpkin puree brings authentic fall flavor, moisture, and vitamins without making the balls soggy.
Maple syrup or honey offers natural sweetness and stickiness — pure maple gives the nicest flavor. Pumpkin pie spice is the star — it delivers that signature warm blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves in one convenient scoop. Mini chocolate chips are optional but highly recommended for little pockets of chocolatey joy!
Variations and Substitutions:
Make them nut-free by swapping almond/peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or tahini. For a vegan version, use plant-based protein powder and maple syrup instead of honey. Boost fiber and omega-3s by stirring in 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed or chia seeds.
Skip the chocolate chips and roll in chopped pecans, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds for crunch. For lower sugar, reduce maple syrup to 3 tablespoons and add extra vanilla or a sugar-free sweetener.
Turn them into pumpkin spice latte balls by adding ½ teaspoon instant coffee or espresso powder. Use chocolate or cinnamon protein powder instead of vanilla for a flavor twist. For grain-free, replace oats with almond flour or oat flour — adjust amounts as the texture changes.
Storage Options:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week — they stay perfectly chewy and flavorful. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before enjoying — they taste great straight from the freezer too!
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