These No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Energy Balls are the perfect treat! They’re filled with tasty pumpkin, oats, and warm spices that make you feel cozy inside.
They’re so easy to whip up, you can make them while binge-watching your favorite show. Plus, they’re healthy enough to enjoy anytime, and nobody will judge you for sneaking a few extra! 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: They provide great texture and fiber in these energy balls. If you need a gluten-free option, make sure to use gluten-free oats! Instant oats can be substituted but might make the texture a bit softer.
Canned Pumpkin Puree: Use pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor. If you don’t have any, homemade pumpkin puree works too—just bake and mash real pumpkins. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugar and spices.
Nut Butter: Almond butter adds a nice flavor, but peanut butter or sunflower seed butter are great alternatives if you prefer one of those. Use nut-free butter for allergy concerns.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both add sweetness, but maple syrup is my go-to for a distinct flavor. If you’re vegan, stick with maple syrup instead of honey.
Spices: Pumpkin pie spice is a blend that gives the balls that wonderful fall flavor. You can make your own by mixing cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves if you don’t have pre-made.
How Do I Make Sure the Dough Sticks Together?
If your dough feels too sticky, don’t worry! A quick chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes can help. If it’s still a challenge, wet your hands slightly before rolling. This prevents the dough from sticking to your fingers!
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly to create a moldable dough.
- Consider adding a bit more oats or ground flaxseed if it’s too wet.
- Rolling in extra oats can also provide a little grip while creating a fun texture.
Making these energy balls is a breeze, and they can be stored in the fridge for quick snacks throughout your week. Enjoy creating this tasty treat!
No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Energy Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Energy Balls:
- 1 cup rolled oats (plus extra for rolling, optional)
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/3 cup almond butter or peanut butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed or chia seeds (optional, for fiber and texture)
For the Topping:
- White chocolate or yogurt drizzle (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. After rolling the energy balls, you’ll want to chill them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, which helps them firm up. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes before you can enjoy these tasty treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and adding in the rolled oats, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, salt, and ground flaxseed or chia seeds if you’re using them. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything evenly.
2. Add Wet Ingredients:
Next, pour in the pumpkin puree, almond butter (or peanut butter), maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract into the bowl with your dry ingredients. Mix all of these together until you have a sticky, moldable dough.
3. Roll the Dough into Balls:
Now it’s time to shape the mixture! Using your hands, roll the dough into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. If the dough is too sticky to handle, you can chill it in the fridge for about 15 minutes or wet your hands a bit to make rolling easier!
4. Optional Coating:
If you want a bit of added texture, you can roll some of the balls in extra rolled oats. This step is optional, but it gives a nice look and feel. Place all the rolled energy balls on a parchment-lined tray or plate.
5. Drizzle (Optional):
If you’re feeling fancy and want to add a drizzle, melt some white chocolate or yogurt in a microwave-safe bowl. Lightly drizzle it over the energy balls for a decorative touch that adds even more flavor!
6. Chill and Store:
Cover the energy balls and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to let them firm up. After chilling, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week—if they last that long!
Now you’re all set to enjoy these cozy, nutritious pumpkin-flavored energy bites anytime you need a quick boost of energy. Happy snacking!
Can I Use Different Nut Butters for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While almond butter adds a lovely flavor, you can swap it for peanut butter or sunbutter if you prefer. Just ensure whichever you choose is smooth and creamy for the best texture.
Is There a Vegan Substitute for Honey?
Yes! Maple syrup is a great vegan substitute for honey. It provides similar sweetness and works perfectly in this recipe. You can use the same amount as directed.
How Long Do These Energy Balls Last?
These energy balls can last up to a week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They also freeze well, so feel free to make a larger batch and freeze some for later—just thaw them in the fridge when you’re ready to eat!
Can I Omit the Flaxseed or Chia Seeds?
Yes, you can definitely leave out the flaxseed or chia seeds if you don’t have them on hand. They add extra fiber and nutrients, but the recipe will still work well without them. Just adjust the other ingredients if you feel the mixture is too dry or sticky.
