These Keto Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls are packed with flavor and goodness! With creamy cottage cheese, pumpkin, and warm spices, they make a tasty snack.
They’re super simple to whip up, and the best part? They keep you feeling full without the carbs! Whenever I need a quick pick-me-up, I reach for these yummy bites!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese gives these energy balls a creamy texture and boosts the protein content. If you’re dairy-free, you can use a vegan alternative like silken tofu or a plant-based cream cheese.
Pumpkin Puree: Unsweetened pumpkin puree is key for flavor. You can substitute it with mashed sweet potato or butternut squash if pumpkin isn’t available.
Almond Flour: This adds a nice structure and helps keep the balls keto-friendly. For a nut-free option, you can use sunflower seed flour or coconut flour, but be cautious with the quantity as coconut flour absorbs more moisture.
Sweetener: Sugar-free sweeteners like erythritol are great for keto diets. If you prefer natural options, consider using stevia or monk fruit, adjusting according to taste.
Shredded Coconut: It adds texture and flavor. If you want a different taste, try using chopped nuts or seeds instead!
How Can I Make Sure My Energy Balls Hold Together?
Getting the right consistency is crucial for keeping your energy balls firm. Here are some tips to help:
- Start by ensuring all your ingredients are well mixed and that the cottage cheese and pumpkin are smooth.
- Chilling the mixture for at least 30 minutes is vital. This helps the ingredients bind together better.
- If the mixture looks too wet, add a little more almond flour or shredded coconut until you achieve a dough-like consistency.
- When rolling, press the mixture firmly to create compact balls. This helps them hold shape as they chill.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with delicious, bite-sized energy balls that are easy to store and eat on the go!
How to Make Keto Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls
Ingredients
- 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons almond flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut (plus extra for rolling)
- 2 tablespoons sugar-free sweetener (like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 1 hour to chill, giving you a total time of about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Perfect for a quick snack on the go!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, add the full-fat cottage cheese and the pumpkin puree. Mix them together until you have a smooth and well-blended mixture. It’s okay if it’s a little lumpy—just make sure the cottage cheese is well incorporated!
2. Add the Spices and Flavorings:
Next, sprinkle in the pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture well so the flavors are evenly distributed. The combination of spices will give it that cozy, fall flavor!
3. Mix in the Dry Ingredients:
Now it’s time to thicken up the mixture! Stir in the almond flour, shredded coconut, and sugar-free sweetener until you achieve a dough-like consistency. If it feels too wet, you can add a bit more almond flour or coconut to help it hold together better.
4. Chill the Mixture:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to roll into balls.
5. Shape the Energy Balls:
Once chilled, take about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball with your hands. This part is fun! Keep going until you’ve rolled all the mixture into balls.
6. Add Coconut Coating (Optional):
If you like, you can roll each ball in extra shredded coconut for a lovely finish. This adds a nice texture and look!
7. Final Chill:
Place your energy balls on a tray or plate and put them back in the fridge for another 30 minutes before serving. This helps them set perfectly and makes them nice and firm.
8. Store Your Treats:
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days—if they last that long! Enjoy these delicious pumpkin spice energy balls as a quick snack or a delightful treat any time of the day!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese Instead of Full-Fat?
Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese, but it may result in a slightly less creamy texture. Full-fat cottage cheese adds richness and helps bind the energy balls better.
What Can I Substitute for Pumpkin Puree?
If you don’t have pumpkin puree, mashed sweet potato or butternut squash can work well as alternatives, providing a similar texture and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Energy Balls?
Store any leftover energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Energy Balls?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar-free sweetener to suit your taste. Just remember to start with less, as you can always add more if needed!
