In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, pumpkin puree, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well blended and have a uniform texture.
Sprinkle in the pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and sea salt. Mix again until these spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Gently fold in the chopped nuts and mini chocolate chips (if you choose to include them), ensuring they are evenly mixed into the pumpkin mixture.
With your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into small balls, each approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place the formed energy balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each ball for ease of handling.
After shaping all the mixture into balls, refrigerate the baking sheet for at least 30 minutes to allow the energy balls to firm up and hold their shape.
Once chilled, transfer the energy balls to an airtight container for storage. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to one week for a convenient and healthy snacking option.
Notes
These delightful bites also make fantastic grab-and-go snacks, perfect for meal prep and busy days!
Keyword energy balls, healthy, pumpkin spice, snack