These Keto Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls are a tasty treat full of flavor! They mix cottage cheese, pumpkin, and cozy spices for a deliciously healthy snack.
Making these is super easy—just mix everything, roll them into balls, and you’re good to go! They’re perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a fun dessert. Enjoy the pumpkin spice goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Use full-fat cottage cheese to keep it keto-friendly. If you’re not a fan, ricotta cheese can work too, providing a similar texture and creaminess.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree adds moisture and flavor. If fresh pumpkin is available, you can roast and puree it yourself, just make sure it’s unsweetened.
Almond Flour: This gluten-free option is key for the right texture. If you need a nut-free choice, you can substitute with sunflower seed flour, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
Flaxseed: Ground flaxseed helps bind the mixture and adds fiber. If you don’t have flaxseed, chia seeds can be a good alternative. Just grind them before adding.
How Do I Get the Right Texture for My Energy Balls?
Forming the right texture for your energy balls is essential. You want a consistency that holds together without being too sticky or dry. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Mix well! Ensure the cottage cheese and pumpkin are fully blended before adding dry ingredients.
- If the mixture feels too wet after adding almond flour and flaxseed, gradually incorporate more flour or flaxseed, one tablespoon at a time.
- When rolling them, apply a little pressure. This helps compact the ingredients together.
- Chilling is key! Refrigerate the balls for at least an hour. This solidifies the texture, making it easier to enjoy.
Keto Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat for keto)
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
- 2 tbsp erythritol or preferred keto-friendly sweetener
- 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional for coating: a few tbsp rolled oats or shredded coconut
- Optional glaze: 1/4 cup sugar-free white chocolate or cream cheese frosting (keto-friendly)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour for chilling in the fridge to firm them up. It’s a quick and simple process that gives you delicious, nutritious energy balls!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and your chosen sweetener. Stir them together until fully blended and smooth. This creamy base sets the stage for your tasty energy balls!
2. Add the Dry Ingredients:
Next, add in the almond flour, ground flaxseed, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until it forms a thick dough. If your mixture seems too wet, that’s okay! Just sprinkle in a bit more almond flour or flaxseed until it reaches the right consistency for rolling.
3. Form the Energy Balls:
Using your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place each ball on a baking sheet or a plate lined with parchment paper. This part is fun—get your hands a little messy!
4. (Optional) Coat the Balls:
If you want to add some extra texture, you can roll some of the balls in rolled oats or shredded coconut. This step is entirely up to your taste preference!
5. (Optional) Drizzle with Glaze:
For a bit of extra sweetness and flair, you can dip half of the balls into melted sugar-free white chocolate or keto-friendly cream cheese frosting. After dipping, sprinkle with extra oats before the coating sets. This delicious addition makes them even more delightful!
6. Chill and Store:
Finally, it’s time to let your energy balls firm up in the fridge. Cover them and chill for at least 1 hour before serving. They can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or you can freeze them for longer storage!
Enjoy these nutritious, pumpkin-spiced keto energy balls as a perfect snack or dessert! They’re not just healthy, but also packed with flavor!
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Cottage Cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for cottage cheese if you prefer a smoother texture. Just be mindful that it may change the flavor slightly, and check that it’s full-fat for a keto-friendly option.
What Can I Use Instead of Almond Flour?
If you need a nut-free alternative, you can use sunflower seed flour or coconut flour. However, keep in mind that coconut flour absorbs more moisture, so you’ll need to adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly.
How Should I Store These Energy Balls?
Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer and transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months!
Can I Add Nuts or Seeds to the Mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chopped nuts or seeds of your choice for a crunchy texture. Just keep in mind that this may alter the macros slightly, so adjust accordingly if you’re tracking your intake.