Pin A wholesome, grab-and-go snack that combines earthy matcha, sweet pumpkin, and warming spices for an energizing treat reminiscent of pumpkin muffins.
I first made these for a quick breakfast during busy mornings, and the pumpkin muffin flavor paired with matcha kept everyone satisfied and alert throughout the day.
Ingredients
- Rolled oats: 1 cup (certified gluten-free if needed)
- Almond flour: 1/2 cup
- Ground flaxseed: 2 tbsp
- Pumpkin pie spice: 1 1/2 tsp
- Matcha green tea powder: 1 tbsp
- Fine sea salt: 1/4 tsp
- Pumpkin purée: 1/2 cup (unsweetened)
- Pure maple syrup: 1/4 cup
- Almond butter: 1/2 cup (or sunflower seed butter for nut-free)
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Mini dark chocolate chips: 1/3 cup (dairy-free if needed)
- Pumpkin seeds (pepitas): 2 tbsp, plus more for garnish
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine oats, almond flour, ground flaxseed, pumpkin pie spice, matcha powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Whisk wet ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, maple syrup, almond butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Mix and form dough:
- Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until a thick dough forms.
- Fold in mix-ins:
- Fold in chocolate chips and pumpkin seeds.
- Shape energy balls:
- Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion the dough and roll into 1-inch balls.
- Garnish:
- Optional: Press a few extra pumpkin seeds onto the top of each ball for garnish.
- Chill:
- Place energy balls on a parchment-lined tray. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best texture. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Pin My family loves taking these on autumn hikes, and kids enjoy helping roll the dough into little balls. They're always a welcome treat in a lunchbox or after school.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, whisk, spatula, tablespoon or cookie scoop, baking tray, parchment paper
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (almond flour, almond butter), possible soy (chocolate chips). Nut-free option available as noted. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per ball (based on 16): Calories 110, Total Fat 6 g, Carbohydrates 12 g, Protein 3 g
Pin Enjoy these wholesome bites as a snack or breakfast boost. They store well, making them perfect for meal prep all week.
Recipe FAQ
- → What gives these muffin balls their green color?
Matcha green tea powder provides a naturally vibrant green hue, as well as a gentle energy boost.
- → Are these suitable for nut-free diets?
Yes, substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter and use nut-free certified ingredients.
- → Can I swap out the chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Try dried cranberries or chopped dates for added sweetness and fruity flavor.
- → How should I store the balls?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to 1 week.
- → Are these gluten-free?
Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free and all other ingredients are gluten-free as needed.
- → How long does it take to make these?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes; no baking required. Chill for optimal texture before enjoying.