Can I make pumpkin protein balls without protein powder?

Absolutely! You can replace the protein powder with extra oats or 2 tablespoons of almond flour. The texture will be slightly softer, but they’ll still hold together perfectly. If you want to keep them high in protein, add 1 tablespoon of chia or hemp seeds.

How long do pumpkin protein balls last in the fridge?

They stay fresh for up to 7 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for up to 1 month just thaw them for 5 minutes before eating for the perfect chewy texture.

Are pumpkin protein balls good for post-workout snacks?

Yes! They’re excellent for recovery. The combination of carbs from oats and pumpkin with protein from powder or nut butter helps replenish glycogen and repair muscle fibers. It’s one of those rare snacks that’s both satisfying and performance-friendly.

What type of protein powder works best for this recipe?

A vanilla-flavored whey or plant-based protein powder blends beautifully with the pumpkin and spice. Avoid gritty or heavily sweetened ones; they can overpower the natural flavors. Unflavored protein also works if you want to control the sweetness.

Can I make these pumpkin protein balls vegan?

Definitely. Use a plant-based protein powder and maple syrup instead of honey. Most nut butters are vegan-friendly, and pumpkin purée already adds all the moisture you need. They’re 100% no-bake and dairy-free.

5-Minute Pumpkin Protein Balls | Simple & Delicious Snack

Pumpkin Protein Balls (No-Bake, High-Protein Snack for Fall)

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These 5-minute Pumpkin Protein Balls are the ultimate healthy snack for fall. Made with oats, pumpkin purée, nut butter, and protein powder, they’re soft, chewy, and full of warm spice flavor. No baking, no mess — just simple ingredients that pack real nutrition and cozy energy. Perfect for meal prep, post-workout snacks, or an afternoon treat.

Author: Sophie Bennett - Top Choice Recipes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 12 balls 1x
Category: Snack
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup rolled oats
½ cup vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
½ cup pure pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
⅓ cup almond or peanut butter
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons mini dark chocolate chips (optional)
Pinch of sea salt

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Instructions

Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oats, protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
Add wet ingredients: Stir in pumpkin purée, nut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Adjust texture: If the dough feels dry, add a splash of almond milk. If too sticky, sprinkle more oats.
Add mix-ins: Fold in chocolate chips or any extras like chia or flax seeds.
Shape and chill: Roll into 12 balls using about 1 tablespoon of dough per ball. Chill in the fridge for at least 20 minutes to firm up.
Store: Keep refrigerated for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 1 month.

Notes

Vegan Option: Use maple syrup instead of honey and plant-based protein powder.
Nut-Free Option: Substitute sunflower seed butter for almond butter.
Flavor Variations: Add 1 tablespoon cocoa powder for a chocolate-pumpkin version or roll in crushed nuts for extra crunch.
Great for meal prep — make a double batch to keep healthy snacks ready all week.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 balls
Calories: 120
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 45 mg
Fat: 6 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 5 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg

Find it online: https://www.topchoicerecipes.com/5-minute-pumpkin-protein-balls/