Pumpkin energy balls are the ultimate autumn snack — no oven, no fuss, just cozy flavors rolled into every bite. These no-bake bites deliver everything you love about pumpkin pie, minus the sugar crash. Packed with wholesome oats, real pumpkin purée, and warming spices, they’re soft, spiced, and perfectly portable. Whether you’re looking for a pre-workout boost, a lunchbox favorite, or a post-dinner treat, these bites check every box. Plus, they come together in under 30 minutes and store beautifully for days. Let’s roll up our sleeves and bring this fall-flavored favorite to life in your kitchen!
Table of Contents
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious pumpkin energy balls:
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
- ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup canned pumpkin purée (unsweetened)
- ¼ cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins
- 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds for added fiber
- Crushed pecans or walnuts for crunch
Substitutions
- Use sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version
- Swap maple syrup with honey if preferred
- Gluten-free oats make this recipe entirely gluten-free
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your pumpkin energy balls:
- Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, ground flaxseed, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Stir until evenly distributed. - Add Wet Ingredients
Add the pumpkin purée, almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir well using a spatula or wooden spoon until everything is fully combined. - Fold in Add-Ins
Gently mix in your optional add-ins like chocolate chips, chia seeds, or chopped nuts. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky. - Chill the Mixture
Place the bowl in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes. This firms up the dough and makes it easier to roll. - Roll into Balls
Using your hands or a cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. You should get about 12–14 balls. - Store Properly
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no baking required)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: Makes 12–14 energy balls
- Difficulty: Easy
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 7 days; freeze for up to 3 months
Nutrition Facts (per ball – approximate)
- Calories: 90–110
- Protein: 2–3g
- Carbohydrates: 10–12g
- Sugar: 4–6g
- Fat: 4–5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 30–50mg
Tips & Variations
Expert Tips
- Use thick pumpkin purée – If your purée is watery, blot it slightly with a paper towel to avoid soggy bites.
- Chill before rolling – Don’t skip the chill time; it makes shaping easier and prevents stickiness.
- Adjust texture – If the mixture feels too dry, add a bit more nut butter. Too wet? Add more oats.
Flavor Variations
- Coconut Bliss – Roll balls in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne for a subtle heat that pairs beautifully with pumpkin spice.
- Chocolate Lovers – Swap pumpkin pie spice with cocoa powder for a fudgy version.

Pumpkin Energy Balls Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, stir together oats, flaxseed, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- Add pumpkin purée, almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla. Mix until fully combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips, chia seeds, or nuts (if using).
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes.
- Roll into 1-inch balls using your hands or a cookie scoop.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
FAQs
Can I make these pumpkin energy balls vegan?
Yes! Just ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free and you’re using maple syrup.
Are they gluten-free?
They can be! Just use certified gluten-free oats.
How long do they last?
They stay fresh in the fridge for up to 1 week or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely — just make sure it’s pureed smoothly and not too watery.
Conclusion
These no-bake pumpkin energy balls are a cozy, nutritious treat you’ll want to keep stocked all season long. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, looking for a quick snack, or just craving those warm fall flavors, this recipe delivers on taste and simplicity. Best of all, it’s endlessly customizable to suit your dietary needs and flavor cravings. Try pairing them with your morning coffee or as a mid-day pick-me-up — you’ll be hooked after one bite!