These Keto Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls are perfect for a quick snack! They blend creamy cottage cheese with pumpkin and warm spices for a tasty treat.
They’re easy to make and are packed with protein, making them great for energy on the go. I love grabbing a few before a workout. They’re my secret snack weapon! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Full-fat is the best choice here as it provides creaminess and adds protein. If you’re lactose intolerant, try ricotta cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a similar texture.
Pumpkin Puree: Always go for unsweetened pumpkin puree to avoid extra sugars. If you can’t find it, you can use mashed sweet potatoes, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
Almond Flour: This is a key ingredient for keeping it keto-friendly. If you have a nut allergy, sunflower seed flour is a great alternative, though you might need to adjust the moisture level in the recipe a bit.
Pumpkin Spice Blend: You can make your own mix using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. If you’re not a fan of any of these spices, feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences.
How Do I Ensure My Energy Balls Hold Together?
To keep your energy balls from falling apart, make sure your ingredients are well-incorporated. Here are some tips:
- Chill the mixture before rolling—this firms it up and makes it easier to shape.
- If your mixture feels too dry, add a bit more cottage cheese or pumpkin puree to help bind everything together.
- On the other hand, if it’s too wet, you can add a bit more almond flour.
Make sure to let them sit in the fridge after rolling, as this helps them set nicely!
How to Make Keto Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
- 2 tbsp chia seeds or flax seeds (optional for extra fiber)
- 1 tbsp pumpkin spice blend (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves)
- 2 tbsp erythritol or preferred keto-friendly sweetener
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Rolled hemp seeds or finely chopped nuts (for coating, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional hour for chilling. You’ll have delicious energy balls ready to enjoy in under an hour and a half!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, start by combining the cottage cheese, pumpkin puree, erythritol or your preferred sweetener, and vanilla extract. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
2. Add the Dry Ingredients:
Next, add in the almond flour, chopped nuts, pumpkin spice blend, chia or flax seeds, and a pinch of salt. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined, and you have a thick dough forming.
3. Chill the Mixture:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This chilling step will make the mixture easier to handle when you roll it into balls.
4. Roll the Energy Balls:
After chilling, take the mixture out of the fridge. Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into small balls in your palms. Aim for about 1-inch diameter balls.
5. Optional Coating:
If you want, you can roll the balls in rolled hemp seeds or finely chopped nuts for a nice texture and decorative finish. This step is optional but adds a lovely touch!
6. Chill Again:
Place the rolled energy balls on a plate or tray. Pop them back into the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to firm up.
7. Store and Enjoy:
Once set, store the energy balls in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to one week, making them a convenient and tasty keto-friendly snack. Enjoy as a quick pick-me-up during the day!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese Instead?
While full-fat cottage cheese gives the best flavor and texture, you can use low-fat if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that the energy balls may not be as creamy and could be a bit drier.
How Can I Sweeten These Without Erythritol?
If you prefer a different sweetener, you can use stevia, monk fruit, or even honey or maple syrup (not keto-friendly). Just adjust the quantity to taste, as different sweeteners have varying sweetness levels!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they will last for about three months. Thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your energy balls by adding in ingredients like unsweetened coconut flakes, cocoa powder for a chocolate version, or even protein powder for an extra boost. Just make sure to adjust your wet and dry ingredient ratios as needed.