These pumpkin protein balls are a nutritious bite-sized snack! They are made with pumpkin puree, dates, oats, protein powder, spices, and vanilla. The velvety pumpkin puree gives these protein balls pumpkin flavor while the dates add a natural sweetness. These protein balls have a cozy fall-inspired flavor that we know you will love. They are a delicious treat anytime the craving hits!

Why You Will Love Pumpkin Protein Balls

They have the delicious flavors of pumpkin spice!
This recipe is vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free.
They are easy to make and come together quickly.
You can easily store these protein balls in the fridge or freeze some.
They are made with simple ingredients.

What Are Pumpkin Protein Balls?

Pumpkin protein balls, also called pumpkin energy balls or bites, are a delicious no-bake snack. We added some vanilla protein powder to these protein balls. The pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice give them pumpkin flavor! Also, these pumpkin protein balls are made with dates and rolled oats. There is no peanut butter in them. They are the perfect protein balls to make during the autumn season. Enjoy them as a snack or even for dessert.

Ingredients For Pumpkin Protein Balls

Oats: Some rolled oats go in the food processor, and the rest are kept whole.
Dates: Use pitted Medjool dates and chop them.
Pumpkin Puree: Gives these protein balls pumpkin flavor! Use pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: Add pumpkin pie spice for flavor.
Protein Powder: Vanilla protein powder to add some protein.
Vanilla: Add a splash of vanilla extract for flavor.
Salt: A pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
Chia Seeds: Are a great addition because they have omega 3s, fiber, and protein.
Milk: Use unsweetened almond milk to keep this recipe dairy-free and vegan. The milk helps the ingredients come together in the food processor.

How To Make Pumpkin Protein Balls

Step 1: Chop the pitted Medjool dates into small pieces.

Step 2: Add 3/4 cup of the rolled oats to a high-powered food processor and set aside the remaining oats. Then, add the chopped pitted Medjool dates, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla protein powder, vanilla extract, salt, chia seeds, and almond milk to the food processor.

Step 3: Thoroughly combine the ingredients in the food processor. After that, add the mixture to a bowl.

Step 4: Next, fold in the remaining rolled oats.

pumpkin protein ball ingredients in a bowl

The combined ingredients for protein balls

Step 5: Use a small cookie scoop to form the protein balls. Use your hands to roll the balls, and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Use Medjool Dates: Use pitted Medjool dates or remove the pits from Medjool dates yourself. Only use Medjool dates, not any other types of dates, in this recipe. They have a sweet flavor that is delicious in these protein balls.
Chop The Dates: Chop the pitted Medjool dates into smaller pieces. It helps these protein balls come together in the food processor.
High-Powered Food Processor: Use a high-powered food processor. Your food processor needs to be able to process the dates and oats.
Use A Cookie Scoop: Use a one-tablespoon small cookie scoop to form the protein balls. It helps make them the same size.

How To Store Pumpkin Protein Balls

Refrigerate Them: Store these pumpkin protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freeze Them: You can freeze these protein balls! Make sure to freeze them in a freezer-safe container. They will last 2-3 months in the freezer.

Recipe Variations

Use Different Milk: You can use your milk of choice in this recipe. We used unsweetened almond milk to keep this recipe vegan. Some other options are non-fat milk, 1% milk, and oat milk.
Add Chocolate Chips: Add some mini chocolate chips for a burst of chocolate flavor! If you don’t have mini chocolate chips, roughly chop regular-sized chocolate chips to evenly disperse the chocolate flavor. To keep this entire recipe vegan, use vegan chocolate chips.
Add Chia Seeds: As an option, add chia seeds to these protein balls for omega 3s and fiber.
Other Mix-Ins: Some other mix-ins that would be delicious are chopped pecans or unsweetened coconut flakes.
What Oats To Use: Rolled oats are the perfect size and texture for this recipe. If you don’t have rolled oats, you can substitute them for quick oats. Just don’t use steel-cut oats.
More Protein: To add more protein to these pumpkin balls, you can use two tablespoons of protein powder in this recipe.
Gluten-Free Protein Balls: To ensure these pumpkin protein balls are gluten-free, use certified gluten-free rolled oats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Pumpkin Protein Balls Vegan?

Yes, these pumpkin protein balls are naturally vegan and dairy-free!

Can I Freeze Protein Balls?

You can freeze these pumpkin protein balls in a freezer-safe container for 2-3 months.

How Long Do Pumpkin Protein Balls Last?

These pumpkin balls will last up to one week in the refrigerator. Store them in an airtight container. They are great to have on hand for the week!

When To Eat Protein Balls?

You can enjoy these protein balls any time of day. They would be delicious in the morning with coffee and make an excellent pre or post-workout snack. Even enjoy them for dessert or as a mid-day snack.

What Protein Powder To Use?

Use your favorite vanilla protein powder in this recipe. We love Orgain vanilla protein powder, which is plant-based and made with clean ingredients. Use our code healthyfoodiegirl for 30% off.

More Recipes To Try Next!

If you try this recipe please be sure to leave us a comment and star rating ★★★★★ letting us know how it turns out for you. We hope you enjoy these pumpkin protein balls!