These Keto Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls are a tasty treat packed with protein and fall flavors! They blend cottage cheese, pumpkin, and spices for a yummy snack.
They’re perfect for a quick pick-me-up during the day or a sweet after-dinner nibble. Plus, no baking means less mess! I like to pop a few in my bag before heading out. 🍂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein. If you’re dairy-free, try using tofu for a similar texture, though flavor will vary.
Pumpkin Puree: Unsweetened pumpkin puree gives these energy balls a rich fall flavor. If you don’t have pumpkin, mashed sweet potatoes can work as a substitute.
Almond Flour: This keeps the recipe low-carb. You can swap it for coconut flour, but use less, as coconut flour absorbs moisture differently.
Shredded Coconut: It adds texture and flavor. If avoiding coconut, you can simply leave it out or replace it with chopped pecans or walnuts.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: It creates that signature fall flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger will also do the trick.
How Do I Make Sure My Energy Balls Hold Together?
Getting the right consistency for your energy balls is crucial. When mixing, make sure to achieve a thick and pliable dough. If it feels too wet, gradually add more almond flour until it holds together.
- Mix cottage cheese and pumpkin puree until smooth without any lumps.
- Add dry ingredients slowly and mix well to see how it comes together.
- Let the mixture chill in the fridge to help it firm up before rolling, making it much easier to shape into balls!
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly shaped energy balls every time. Enjoy your snack! 😊
How to Make Keto Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1 cup almond flour or finely ground almonds
- 1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut (optional)
- 2 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds (for texture and nutrition)
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1/4 cup powdered erythritol or preferred keto-friendly sweetener (adjust sweetness to taste)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and another 30 minutes for chilling in the refrigerator. In a little less than an hour, you’ll have yummy and healthy energy balls to enjoy for days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl. Combine the full-fat cottage cheese and pumpkin puree. Use a whisk or a spatula to mix them together until the mixture is smooth without any lumps peeking through. This step is super important for a creamy texture!
2. Add Your Flavors:
Next, sprinkle in the pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, your choice of keto-friendly sweetener, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything well until all those tasty flavors blend together nicely.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the almond flour, shredded coconut (if using), and the chia or flaxseeds. Stir the mixture thoroughly. You’re looking for a consistency that thickens up nicely and holds together. If it feels too wet, go ahead and add more almond flour a little at a time.
4. Chill the Mixture:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to roll into balls.
5. Roll Into Balls:
After chilling, take the bowl out of the fridge. Use clean hands to scoop out portions of the mixture, rolling them into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. It is messy but fun!
6. Optional Coating:
If you want some extra texture, you can roll each ball in a bit of shredded coconut or extra almond flour for a nice touch.
7. Store and Enjoy:
Store your finished energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll keep fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them, so you have healthy snacks ready to go whenever you want!
Enjoy these protein-packed, low-carb, pumpkin-spiced energy bites as a perfect keto-friendly snack any time of day! 🍂
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese Instead of Full-Fat?
You can use low-fat cottage cheese, but keep in mind that it may affect the creaminess and overall flavor of the energy balls. Full-fat cottage cheese adds richness, which balances the spices and pumpkin nicely.
How Can I Make These Dairy-Free?
If you want to make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the cottage cheese with silken tofu or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Both options will help maintain the creamy texture!
What Sweetener Can I Use Besides Erythritol?
You can use any keto-friendly sweetener you prefer, such as monk fruit, stevia, or allulose. Just be sure to adjust the amount to match the sweetness level of your chosen sweetener.
How Do I Store These Energy Balls?
Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.