Looking for a tasty and healthy snack that’s easy to make? These Pumpkin Protein Balls are perfect for you! Packed with oats, pumpkin, and peanut butter, they are delicious and a nutritious high-protein after-school snack for kids.

Everyone will love this quick and easy handheld snack that’s great for after-school or post-workout. Made in under 10 minutes, these protein bites are packed with fall flavors, but can be enjoyed all year round.
We are excited to partner with Pick ‘n Save/Metro Market, a store we’ve proudly supported for years. Their Kroger and Simple Truth brands ensure quality and savings, adding an extra layer of assurance for families. Create Kids Club values wholesome choices and delicious meals, and our collaboration creates an ideal platform for affordable, quality living
Ingredients:
- 2 cups certified gluten-free quick-cook oats ✅
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice ✅
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional, but highly recommended!) ✅
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ✅
Gluten-Free Guide: If you’re new to eating gluten-free we understand it’s overwhelming trying to figure out which foods may contain gluten and which ones don’t. All of our gluten-free recipes marked with this symbol ✅ represent foods that need to be checked for gluten.
Instructions:
Blend the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, pumpkin puree, peanut butter, honey, pumpkin pie spices, vanilla, and chocolate chips. Mix until well combined.
Shape the Balls: Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Chill: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the balls to firm up. This step helps the balls to hold their shape better.
Store: Once the pumpkin protein balls are firm, transfer them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to one week or in the freezer for up to a month.
Tips and Variations:
- Add-ins: Feel free to customize your protein balls by adding nuts, seeds, or dried fruit. Chia seeds, flaxseeds, or dried cranberries make great additions.
- Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey according to your taste preference. You can also use maple syrup or agave nectar as an alternative sweetener.
- Texture: For a smoother texture, blend the oats into a finer consistency using a food processor before mixing.
These Pumpkin Protein Balls are perfect for a quick snack, a pre-workout boost, or a sweet treat. Enjoy their delightful pumpkin flavor and the health benefits they bring. Happy snacking!
CKC Features both Gluten-Free Guidance and Kids Cooking Instructions: If you’re new to eating gluten-free we understand it’s overwhelming trying to figure out which foods may contain gluten and which ones don’t. All of our gluten-free recipes marked with this symbol ✅ represent foods that need to be checked for gluten or cross-contamination.
The ⭐️ symbol in the recipe below denotes the steps in which kid cooks may need a helper (depending on age). If there is no ⭐️ symbol, that step (or recipe) doesn’t require a helper.
Pumpkin Protein Balls Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups certified gluten-free quick cook oats ✅
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice ✅
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ✅
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips optional ✅
Instructions
- Blend the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, pumpkin puree, peanut butter, honey, pumpkin pie spices, vanilla, and chocolate chips. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the Balls: Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Chill: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the balls to firm up. This step helps the balls to hold their shape better.
Trisha says
These were a hit in my house! Very tasty and love the pumpkin flavor in them.