When it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen, no-bake recipes are always my favourite! These No-Bake Pumpkin Balls tick all the boxes for a simple, quick, and healthy treat. They are perfect for autumn snacking and for healthy Halloween treats too. 

They are part of my Mini Treats series. Everything in this series comes in a mini form, has minimal ingredients and is under 150 calories.

Easy to make

With no oven and minimal preparation, these no bake pumpkin balls are perfect for beginners or for anyone that wants to whip up something delicious in a hurry. You simply add all the ingredients to a bowl and mix to combine. Separate into 15 pieces and roll into balls. You can eat straightaway, but I like to refrigerate for 30-60 mins to harden slightly.

The Six Simple Ingredients for these no bake pumpkin balls

One of the best things about these Pumpkin Balls is you don’t need many ingredients to make them.

This recipe only uses 6 store-cupboard ingredients:

• Almond flour (ground almonds)
• Pumpkin puree
• Cashew butter
• Maple syrup
• Pumpkin (or mixed) spice
• Dark chocolate chips

Almond Flour (ground almonds)

I’m in the UK so we call them ground almonds – but in the US and other countries its more commonly known as almond flour. This is the base of the balls. Almond flour contains many nutrients including healthy fats, plant-based protein, as well as being naturally gluten-free. It is also a great source of Vitamin E and magnesium.

Pumpkin Puree

The star ingredient, pumpkin puree gives these balls their orange colour and autumnal flavour. Pumpkin is low in calories but high in vitamins, particularly vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene, which is essential for good vision and immune function. Its naturally sweet taste makes it perfect to use in desserts as well as savoury dishes. I buy it canned, but you can make your own too.

Cashew Butter

This adds a creamy, rich texture to the balls. Cashew butter contains monounsaturated fats as well as plant-based protein. It also contain essential minerals such as copper and magnesium, which are vital for energy production and bone health. I like to use cashew butter in this recipe as it a lightly colour and milder flavour but it can be easily subbed for another nut butter.

Maple Syrup

A natural sweetener, maple syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness without the need for more refined sugars. It’s a good source of antioxidants and contains small amounts of essential minerals like manganese, zinc, and iron. Making the balls yourself means you can judge how much sugar you add. I add 3 tbsp but add more or less depending on your own tastes. If you add less, just add a little more cashew butter or pumpkin to ensure they stick together.

Pumpkin Spice

In the US it’s Pumpkin Spice, but in the UK we call it Ground Mixed Spice. They both contain spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves and have a similar flavour profile. I use 2 tsp, but use more or less depending on your own personal taste.

Dark Chocolate Chips

You will know by now that dark chocolate is always my preferred choice. It’s a good source of antioxidants and contains minerals such as iron, magnesium, and copper. I also opt for one that has minimal sugar and at least 70% cocoa solids. 

Storage and Shelf Life

They store really well in the fridge. I like to store in the fridge as it keeps them harder and ensures they last longer. They’ll last for at 8-10 days.

Try them for yourself and let me know what you think in the comments!

Recipe Tips

• Chocolate: I have used dark chocolate chips that are at least 70% cocoa solids.  I prefer this as it’s less sweet and has more of the goodness from chocolate. However, if you would prefer a different chocolate option, please use that.
• Chocolate Coating Alternative: The texture of the balls are quite soft (like cookie dough). If you would prefer a harder finish, you can dip each ball in dark chocolate. You’ll need double the chocolate, if you choose this option.
• Cashew butter: I use cashew butter, but you can use peanut or almond too. The balls will have a darker colour, but it will still work well.
• Sweetness Adjustments: Depending on your taste preferences, you can adjust the sweetness by either increasing or reducing the amount of maple syrup. Alternatively, try adding a tsp of vanilla extract for a bit of sweetness without adding extra sugar.
• Add a pinch of sea salt: For a salty-sweet taste, add a pinch of sea salt to the mixture.

some of The other recipes in my Mini Treats series are:

• Mini Twix
• Raspberry Ruffles
• 3 Ingredient Cashew Cups
• Easy Almond Truffles
• Lime & Pistachio Energy Balls
• Mini Toasted Coconut Bites