Pumpkin Spice Energy Bites: Quick & Healthy Fall Snack
These Pumpkin Spice Energy Bites are a wholesome, no-bake snack that’s perfect for when you need a quick energy boost or a healthier way to satisfy that fall pumpkin craving. They’re packed with oats, nut butter, pumpkin puree, and warm pumpkin spice sweet enough to feel like a treat but filled with protein and fiber to keep you going. My family loves them as a grab-and-go breakfast or an afternoon snack, and they’re great for meal prep because they store beautifully.
Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Spice Bites
These bites are quick, easy, and nutritious, with no baking required. They’re portable, kid-friendly, and customizable with your favorite add-ins (like chocolate chips or protein powder). Perfect for busy mornings, post-workout snacks, or packing in lunchboxes.
Kids in the Kitchen: Let kids help by rolling the bites just set up a parchment-lined tray and let them create their own snack balls. You can even provide fun add-ins (mini M&Ms, sprinkles, or crushed pretzels) for them to customize.
Simple Ingredients
Here’s what makes them so good:
- Pumpkin Puree: Adds flavor and moisture.
- Old-Fashioned Oats: The hearty base that gives structure.
- Nut Butter: Peanut, almond, or cashew butter for healthy fats and protein.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Natural sweetness and helps bind.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: Adds that cozy fall flavor.
- Chia Seeds or Flaxseeds: Optional, but great for added nutrition.
- Mini Chocolate Chips (Optional): For a little indulgence.
Servings and Timings
Servings: About 20 bites
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
What is Needed
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional)
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, stir together pumpkin puree, nut butter, and honey (or maple syrup) until smooth.
- Stir in oats, pumpkin pie spice, chia seeds, and chocolate chips (if using) until evenly combined.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll into balls.
- Place on a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
- Store in an airtight container and grab whenever you need a snack.
Top Tips
- If the mixture feels too sticky, add a bit more oats. If it’s too dry, add a touch more nut butter or honey.
- Use mini chocolate chips for better distribution in each bite.
- For extra protein, mix in a scoop of vanilla protein powder.
Fun Enhancements
- Roll the bites in crushed graham crackers or shredded coconut for texture.
- Add dried cranberries or chopped pecans for extra fall flavor.
- Drizzle with melted white chocolate for a dessert-like treat.
Recipe Variations
- Swap chocolate chips for dried cranberries.
- Use maple almond butter for a fall twist.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for a sweet-and-spicy flavor.
- Use sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
- Make them vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey.
- Add collagen, protein powder or a tablespoon of ground flaxseed for extra protein and fiber for a post-workout snack.
Recommended Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Baking tray
Make Ahead Tips
These bites are perfect for meal prep make a big batch and store in the fridge for up to 1 week.
How to Store & Reheat
- Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the fridge before eating.
Troubleshooting Your Pumpkin Energy Bites
Why won’t they hold together?
- Add more nut butter or honey to bind the mixture. Chilling them longer also helps.
They’re too sticky what can I do?
- Add extra oats or roll them in ground flaxseed or shredded coconut to reduce stickiness.
Can I make them sweeter?
- Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or extra honey/maple syrup to taste.
How to Serve It Beautifully
Serve these bites on a wooden snack board with nuts, dried fruit, and apple slices for a cozy fall snack spread. They’re also perfect in small parchment-lined treat bags for grab-and-go snacking. Pair with a chai latte, apple cider, or even Greek yogurt for a quick, balanced snack.
What You Need to Know About This Recipe
Energy bites are a nutritious, customizable snack these combine the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie with the convenience of a no-bake, on-the-go treat. They’re great for kids, adults, and anyone needing a healthy fall snack.
Pumpkin Spice Energy Bites
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Baking tray
Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup nut butter peanut, almond, or cashew
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds optional
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips optional
Instructions
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a bowl, stir together pumpkin puree, nut butter, and honey (or maple syrup) until smooth.
- Add dry ingredients: Stir in oats, pumpkin pie spice, chia seeds, and chocolate chips (if using) until evenly combined.
- Roll into balls: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll into balls.
- Chill: Place on a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
- Enjoy: Store in an airtight container and grab whenever you need a snack.
Notes
- Chill for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up.
- Adjust sweetness to taste with extra honey or maple syrup.
One-Pot Cooking Rocks!
Michelle
Hi, I’m Michelle, the founder, owner, author, and editor of OvenSpot. My passion for one-pot cooking commenced when I was working to prepare cafeteria lunches for school students. I am now on a mission to assist you in choosing the cooking pot or appliance you will use daily. As well as in-depth information to assist you in using and caring for your cookware and appliances. Along with the yummy recipes I use at home.
Questions? Reach out to Michelle at [email protected]