These Pumpkin Energy Balls have just 8 ingredients and are made in less than 10 minutes. A gluten free, vegan treat that is packed with delicious fall flavor.
Ingredients for pumpkin balls
Canned pumpkin- the key ingredient. Look for canned pumpkin and not pumpkin pie mix which has sugar and spices already added. This also adds moisture and flavor to the bites.
Almond butter- this helps bind the bites together while adding some protein and fats. Another nut butter can definitely be used in place of this. If using an all natural nut butter, use ½ cup more oats to make up for the added moisture.
Maple syrup- this is what the bites are sweetened with and it also provides some moisture to help hold them together. Honey can be used in place, but they would no longer to vegan.
Oats- gluten free rolled oats are what is used and work perfectly. If you use a quick out, you may need a little more liquid as they tend to absorb more.
Pumpkin pie spice- this is what really gives the bites that pumpkin flavor! Don't leave it out! I like to use a store bought mix to keep it super simple and one ingredient. This Frontier Organic Pumpkin Pie Spice is my favorite because it's a mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and cloves which is perfectly balanced.
Salt- a little salt always helps balance the sweetness and makes all the flavors stand out.
Coconut oil- this helps hold the bites together since it hardens when in the fridge. Just a little is needed and refined can be used to ensure no coconut flavor is present.
Add-ins- dried cranberries are pictured in these bites, but I have also added in dairy free chocolate chips. You could also try another dried fruit or pumpkin seeds- whatever sounds good to you.
How to make pumpkin energy balls
These are mixed together in one bowl, making them so quick and easy. Make the mixture, pop it in the fridge for at least an hour to chill, roll into balls and enjoy! I like using a one tablespoon measuring spoon to make them consistent size, but they can be made any size you desire. Just mix, chill and roll—no baking required!
Storing energy balls
These are best stored in the fridge and last up to 2 weeks. They keep their shape at room temperature so they can be packed for on-the-go. These can also be stored in the freezer if needed.
These bites are the perfect quick snack to whip up and have on hand. The cozy fall spices make them perfect for the season.
Here are some more bites to try that you'll love:
- Paleo Cinnamon Roll Bites
- Mango Coconut Bites (paleo and vegan)
- Paleo Pumpkin Pie Bites
- Birthday Cake Bites (paleo and vegan)
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Pumpkin Energy Balls
Ingredients
- ½ cup peanut butter
- ½ cup canned pumpkin
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup dried cranberries (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, pumpkin, maple syrup and coconut oil and stir well. Add in the oats, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and cranberries and stir well until combined. Place in the fridge for one hour to set.
- Remove from fridge and scoop into 1 tablespoon balls, rolling in your palms to form a ball. Place in a container and store covered in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Makes 22-24
Andrea says
So Yum, I will deff make agian- I did lower the amount of maple syrup. Personal choice.
Jessica DeMay says
Thanks for making them and I'm so glad you like them!