Pumpkin Spice Protein Bites
A fall treat you can feel good about
If you’re a fan of all things pumpkin, then you will love these no-bake Pumpkin Spice Protein Bites. They take only a few minutes to make, are packed with good-for-you ingredients and are absolutely delicious. I make a batch on Sundays to have as an afternoon snack for the week (with a good cup of coffee, of course!) and to keep on hand when I’m short on time and running out the door.
While pumpkin itself is very nutrient dense, there isn’t much (or any) to be found in most of the drinks, lattes and desserts that pop up everywhere this time of year. But, you can bet there’s a whole lot of refined sugar, saturated fat and processed additives). That’s why I love these protein bites — they use organic pumpkin puree that is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, namely: beta-carotene; a carotenoid that your body turns into vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, fiber, lutein and zeaxanthin; compounds that promote eye health and healthy skin.
If you’re looking for a snack with the flavor of fall and the health benefits of pumpkin without any refined sugar or unhealthy additives, give these a try… they’re going to be your go-to healthy snack all season long!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: N/A; 15 minutes of freezer time
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 25-30 one-inch balls
PUMPKIN SPICE PROTEIN BITES
Ingredients:
2.5 cups old fashioned or rolled oats (gluten free if desired)
5 tbsp chia seeds
3 tsp ground cinnamon
3 tsp ground pumpkin pie spice
2 scoops vanilla protein powder
The key here is to use a high quality protein powder that actually tastes good. If you use a generic whey that tastes terrible, that flavor will come through in the bites. I love LifeSource’s Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate in Creamy French Vanilla — it is certified organic and kosher, is made with just a few high quality ingredients in a clean production process, and it tastes awesome!
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup organic pumpkin puree
1 cup natural peanut butter
I used Trader Joe’s natural creamy salted peanut butter
1 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 cup local honey (or organic maple syrup)
Pinch (or two) of sea salt; to taste
Optional: 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips
Directions:
Mix ingredients together in a large bowl until well combined (use your hands!)
Roll the mixture into one-inch balls and place on parchment paper one-inch apart
Refrigerate for 15 minutes, then transfer into an air-tight container and store up to one week
Enjoy! I have two or three in the afternoon for a snack with coffee, but these would make a great breakfast substitute or healthy post-dinner treat!
