Fall is here, and I know you’re looking for simple, tasty treats that are also good for you. I’ve put together two fantastic pumpkin snack recipes that are perfect for this time of year.
These easy pumpkin energy bites and protein balls are quick to make, packed with good things, and will help keep you going through your busy days. Let’s make some delicious autumn snacks!
Jump to Recipe:
Quick Paleo Pumpkin Protein Balls
These paleo pumpkin protein balls are a fantastic way to fuel your body. They’re quick to make and perfect for a healthy snack any time you need a boost.
Key Ingredients & Protein Ball Tips
- Pumpkin Puree: Make sure you grab plain pumpkin puree, not the sweetened pie filling. This helps control the sugar and keeps the flavor pure.
- Protein Powder Choice: Use your favorite unflavored or vanilla paleo-friendly protein powder. This lets the natural pumpkin spice flavors shine.
- Rolling: For an extra layer of texture and flavor, you can roll these protein balls in shredded coconut or finely chopped nuts after shaping them.
What You Need for Pumpkin Protein Balls
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ½ cup almond butter
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ½ cup paleo protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 2 tablespoons coconut flour
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- ¼ cup shredded coconut, for rolling (optional)
⏱️ Time: 15 mins prep🍽️ Yields: About 12 protein balls
How to Make Pumpkin Protein Balls
Step 1: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir these together until they are smooth and well mixed. Make sure there are no lumps of almond butter.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients to the Mixture
Now, add in the protein powder, coconut flour, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything really well until a thick dough forms. If it seems a little too sticky, you can add just a tiny bit more coconut flour.
Step 3: Roll and Chill Your Pumpkin Bites
Take small amounts of the dough and roll them into bite-sized balls. If you like, roll them in shredded coconut. Place the finished protein balls on a plate or baking sheet and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before enjoying. This helps them firm up nicely.
📝 Final Note on Storage
You can store these paleo pumpkin protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They are great for grab-and-go snacks throughout your week!
Simple Pumpkin Cranberry Energy Bites Recipe
These pumpkin cranberry energy bites are ideal for a quick pick-me-up. They are easy to make and full of autumnal goodness for your snack time.
Key Ingredients & Energy Bite Advice
- Rolled Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture and to help the bites hold together well. Quick oats can be used but might make the bites softer.
- Dried Cranberries: For better distribution of flavor and texture, you can roughly chop larger dried cranberries before adding them to the mixture. This ensures every bite has some.
- Sweetness Level: You can adjust the amount of maple syrup to fit your preferred sweetness. Taste a small bit of the mixture before forming the bites to check if it’s just right for you.
What You Need for Cranberry Pumpkin Bites
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ½ cup almond butter
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
⏱️ Time: 15 mins prep🍽️ Yields: About 15 energy bites
How to Make Pumpkin Cranberry Energy Bites
Step 1: Mix Wet Ingredients for Energy Bites
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir these ingredients together until they are completely smooth and blended.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients to the Bowl
Next, add the rolled oats, dried cranberries, chia seeds, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt to the wet mixture. Mix everything very well with a spoon or your hands until all the ingredients are evenly combined and form a thick mixture.
Step 3: Form and Chill Your Pumpkin Cranberry Bites
Take small spoonfuls of the mixture and roll them firmly into bite-sized balls. Place the finished energy bites on a plate or a baking sheet. Chill them in the refrigerator for at least 20-30 minutes before you eat them. This helps them firm up and keeps them fresh.
📝 Important Storage Tip
These pumpkin cranberry energy bites keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. They are perfect for healthy grab-and-go snacks!
