Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls

Okay, so I’ve got this snack I’m kinda obsessed with. It’s like fall in every bite. And the best part? No baking.

They’re called pumpkin spice energy balls. Yep, they’re sweet, chewy, and full of cozy flavor. I keep a stash in my fridge at all times.

If you love quick snacks that actually taste good, this one’s for you. Let me show you how to make ‘em.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cozy Fall Flavors: Think pumpkin pie and cinnamon-spiced goodness rolled into one perfect bite. Pumpkin spice, oats, and nuts create a mouthwatering combination.
• Healthy and Energizing: Packed with natural sugars from dates, healthy fats from cashew butter, and fiber from oats, these energy balls give you a satisfying boost of energy.
• No-Bake Convenience: No oven required! Just mix, roll, and chill for an easy snack that’s perfect for busy days.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch at the start of your week, and you’ll have delicious snacks ready to go for several days.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences. Add more protein powder, use different nuts, or tweak the spices for your own flavor profile.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before we jump into the recipe, here are a few things you’ll need for this simple, no-bake snack:

• Food Processor: Helps to blend everything together quickly, creating the perfect consistency for your energy balls.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements.
• Mixing Bowl: If you prefer mixing by hand instead of a food processor.
• Parchment Paper: For easy storage and to prevent sticking when you chill your energy balls.
• Baking Sheet or Plate: To place the energy balls on as they chill in the fridge.
• Storage Container: For keeping your energy balls fresh in the fridge.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these flavorful, healthy energy balls (exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below):

• Cashew Butter: A creamy, natural nut butter that adds healthy fats and a smooth texture. If you prefer, you can also use almond butter or peanut butter.
• Canned Pumpkin: Use 100% pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) for the best flavor. Pumpkin is loaded with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Vanilla Extract: For a sweet, aromatic touch that complements the pumpkin spice.
• Medjool Dates: These naturally sweet dates help bind the ingredients together while providing a chewy texture. Be sure to chop them up for easier processing.
• Pecan Halves: Chopped pecans add a nice crunch and richness, but you can substitute other nuts like walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These oats give the energy balls a hearty texture while providing slow-releasing energy.
• Toasted Pepitas: Pumpkin seeds add a nutty flavor and a boost of protein and minerals.
• Chia Seeds: Tiny but mighty, chia seeds are packed with fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: This blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice gives the energy balls their signature autumn flavor. If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can mix individual spices.
• Salt: Just a pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

Variations for Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls

• Add Protein Powder: For an extra protein boost, mix in your favorite protein powder. Vanilla or unflavored protein works great with this flavor combo.
• Use Different Nuts: If pecans aren’t your thing, feel free to swap them with almonds, walnuts, or even cashews for a different texture and flavor.
• Add Chocolate Chips: For a little indulgence, throw in a handful of dark chocolate chips or cocoa nibs for a chocolatey twist.
• Make Them Vegan: These energy balls are already vegan if you use plant-based protein powder and vegan-friendly nut butter.
• Boost with Superfoods: Want to make these even healthier? Add a tablespoon of spirulina, maca powder, or acai powder for additional nutrients.
• Add Dried Fruit: Dried cranberries, apricots, or raisins would make a nice addition for some extra chewiness and natural sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and chopping the dates into small pieces. This makes them easier to process in the food processor. You can also roughly chop the pecans if you prefer smaller pieces, although I like to leave them a little chunkier for texture.

2. Combine Ingredients in a Food Processor

In a food processor, add the cashew butter, canned pumpkin, vanilla extract, dates, pecans, oats, pepitas, chia seeds, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Pulse a few times to break down the dates and pecans. Then, process everything together until it forms a sticky dough-like consistency. If the mixture is too dry and doesn’t stick together, add a tablespoon of water at a time and process until it reaches the right texture.

3. Roll Into Balls

Once the mixture is ready, use your hands to roll it into small balls, about the size of a tablespoon (or bite-size). You can make them smaller or larger based on your preference. Place the rolled balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.

4. Chill

Place the energy balls in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This helps them hold their shape and gives them the perfect chewy texture.

5. Store and Enjoy

Once chilled, your energy balls are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage – just let them thaw for a few minutes before eating.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls

These energy balls are super versatile, making them an ideal snack for various occasions. Here are a few ideas for how to enjoy them:

• As a Pre-Workout Snack: The combination of carbs, protein, and healthy fats gives you sustained energy for a workout. Pop one or two before hitting the gym for an energy boost.
• As a Quick Breakfast: Pair them with a smoothie or your favorite plant-based milk for a quick, nutritious breakfast.
• On the Go: These little bites are perfect for busy days when you need a snack between meetings or after running errands. Pack them in a container and take them with you.
• For an Afternoon Pick-Me-Up: When you hit that afternoon slump, grab an energy ball for a healthy, energizing treat that satisfies your sweet tooth.
• As a Dessert: These are sweet enough to satisfy any dessert cravings while being a much healthier option than a traditional sugary treat.

Storing Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls

• Refrigeration: Store your energy balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. They stay fresh and chewy, perfect for grabbing as a quick snack.
• Freezing: To keep them longer, place the energy balls in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes or enjoy them slightly chilled.

Nutrition with Table Format

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one energy ball (based on 12 servings per batch):

Nutrient	Amount per Ball
Calories	150 kcal
Protein	4g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fiber	4g
Sugars	10g
Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	1g
Omega-3 Fatty Acids	100mg
Sodium	40mg

These energy balls are an excellent source of fiber, healthy fats, and natural sugars, making them a well-rounded snack to keep you full and energized!

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls are the ultimate healthy snack, bursting with fall-inspired flavors and packed with nutritious ingredients. Whether you need a pre-workout snack, a midday pick-me-up, or something to satisfy your sweet tooth, these energy balls will not disappoint. Plus, they’re so easy to make with minimal effort and clean-up, which makes them perfect for busy lifestyles.