These Keto Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls are a tasty little snack packed with protein and flavor! Made with creamy cottage cheese and spicy pumpkin goodness, they’re perfect for a quick bite.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a snack that feels like dessert but is actually good for you? I like to pop a few in my bag for a busy day. They keep me energized and happy! 🎃💪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: I recommend using full-fat cottage cheese for a creamier texture and richer taste. If you’re avoiding dairy, cashew or tofu-based cottage cheese can work as a dairy-free alternative.
Pumpkin Puree: Ensure you use unsweetened pumpkin puree for the best flavor. If pumpkin isn’t available, you can substitute it with mashed sweet potatoes or cooked butternut squash.
Almond Flour: Almond flour gives these energy balls a nice nutty flavor. If nut-free, consider sunflower seed flour or coconut flour. Just remember, coconut flour is more absorbent, so you’ll need less!
Pumpkin Seeds: I love pumpkin seeds for their crunch! You can swap them for sunflower seeds or chopped nuts if you prefer. They add great texture, so don’t skip them!
Sweetener: Erythritol is my go-to for low-carb sweetness, but feel free to use another keto-friendly sweetener like monk fruit or stevia. Just adjust to taste!
How Do I Make Sure My Energy Balls Hold Together?
Making sure your energy balls hold together can be a little tricky, but it’s all about the balance of wet and dry ingredients. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by mixing the wet ingredients like cottage cheese and pumpkin thoroughly until smooth.
- When adding the dry ingredients, do it gradually. This helps you control the consistency.
- If the mixture feels too wet, just sprinkle in more almond flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it starts to hold together.
- Lastly, using your hands to form the balls can ensure they stick together better. A little pressure helps them bind.
Chilling them in the fridge also helps them set and firm up, making them easier to handle!
Keto Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Mixture:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat, drained if too wet)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin purée (unsweetened)
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut (plus extra for rolling)
- 2 tbsp erythritol or your favorite keto sweetener
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then you’ll want to chill the energy balls in the fridge for at least 1 hour. So, in total, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes before you can enjoy these delicious snacks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. Combine the cottage cheese, pumpkin purée, and vanilla extract. Use a spoon or a whisk to mix everything well until it’s nice and smooth. This will create the creamy base for your energy balls!
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
Next, add the almond flour, pumpkin seeds, shredded coconut, erythritol, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to your wet mixture. Stir everything together until you have a sticky dough. If it’s too wet and won’t hold together, sprinkle in a little more almond flour until you get the right consistency.
3. Roll into Balls:
Now, it’s time to get your hands a little messy! Use your hands to roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You’ll find this part fun and easy!
4. Coat for Extra Flavor:
If you like, you can roll some of the balls in extra shredded coconut to give them a little flair and added texture. This step is optional but makes them look even more appetizing!
5. Chill Them Out:
Place the energy balls on a plate or a tray and pop them in the fridge. Let them chill for at least 1 hour. This helps them firm up, making them easier to grab and enjoy later.
6. Enjoy or Store:
Once the energy balls are set, you can enjoy them right away! If you want to save some for later, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. Perfect for a healthy snack on the go!
Indulge in these keto-friendly, delicious little bites anytime you need a pick-me-up. Enjoy! 🎃✨
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese?
While you can use low-fat cottage cheese, keep in mind that the texture might be a bit less creamy. Full-fat versions provide a richer flavor and smoother consistency, which is ideal for these energy balls.
How Can I Sweeten These Further?
If you want them sweeter, feel free to adjust the amount of erythritol or add a splash of liquid stevia to taste. Just be careful not to over-sweeten, as the pumpkin and spices provide a wonderful flavor on their own!
Can I Freeze the Energy Balls?
Yes! These energy balls freeze well. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying!
What Can I Substitute for Almond Flour?
If you need a substitute for almond flour, you can use sunflower seed flour or coconut flour. Just remember that coconut flour is more absorbent, so you’ll need less of it—start with 1/4 cup and adjust as necessary!