These Keto Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls are a tasty and nutritious snack! Made with cottage cheese, pumpkin, and warm spices, they are perfect for a quick pick-me-up.
You can enjoy them any time of day. I often grab one before heading out, as they’re super easy to make—mix, roll, and chill! How great is that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese is ideal for keto as it keeps the fat content high. If you’re lactose intolerant, consider using a lactose-free version or a creamy nut-based yogurt as a substitute.
Pumpkin Puree: Make sure to use unsweetened pumpkin puree. If fresh pumpkin is available, you can roast and puree it yourself for a fresher taste. You can swap it with mashed sweet potato for a different flavor.
Almond Flour: This is a staple in keto recipes, but you can substitute with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free option. Be aware that this may change the flavor slightly.
Coconut Flour: Use coconut flour in moderation as it absorbs a lot of moisture. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use more almond flour, but the texture might vary.
Keto Sweetener: Erythritol is a great choice, but you can also use monk fruit sweetener or stevia, adjusting to taste. Keep in mind these can vary in sweetness.
How Do I Make Sure My Energy Balls Hold Together?
Getting the right texture for your energy balls is crucial. When mixing the ingredients, it should feel sticky but not too wet. Here are tips to ensure they hold together:
- Start by mixing the wet ingredients first. This helps to create a smooth base for your dry ingredients.
- Add the dry ingredients gradually. If the mixture is too sticky, add a tablespoon of almond flour at a time until the desired texture is reached.
- When rolling the balls, make sure to press them firmly together; this helps them bond.
- Chilling the balls in the fridge for at least an hour ensures they set properly, making them easier to handle.
Experiment a bit—there’s no one-size-fits-all! Enjoy making these no-bake treats! 🎉
Keto Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full fat for keto)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 tablespoons coconut flour
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons erythritol or preferred keto sweetener
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (plus extra for rolling, optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious and healthy recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then just 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a simple and quick way to make a nutritious snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Use a fork or whisk to stir everything together until the mixture is nice and smooth. This is your creamy base!
2. Mix in the Dry Ingredients:
Now, add the almond flour, coconut flour, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, erythritol, and a pinch of salt to the wet mixture. Mix everything together until a thick dough forms. It should be sticky but hold together well; if it feels too wet, sprinkle in a bit more almond flour.
3. Form the Energy Balls:
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into smooth balls using your hands. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; they’ll still taste great!
4. Add a Fun Coating (Optional):
If you like, roll each ball in unsweetened shredded coconut for a fun coating. This adds a lovely texture and makes them look even more appealing!
5. Chill and Firm Up:
Place the energy balls on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper and pop them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This allows them to firm up, making them easier to enjoy.
6. Serving and Storage:
Once chilled, they’re ready to eat! Enjoy these keto-friendly energy balls as a nutritious snack or a quick breakfast bite. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Happy snacking!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese?
While you can use low-fat cottage cheese, keep in mind that it may affect the texture and flavor slightly. Full-fat is recommended for a creamier, more satisfying energy ball that aligns better with keto principles.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make these energy balls vegan, substitute the cottage cheese with a plant-based yogurt or silken tofu. For a vegan sweetener, use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of erythritol, adjusting the amount for sweetness.
Can I Freeze the Energy Balls?
Yes! These energy balls freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or zipper bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before enjoying!
What Else Can I Add to the Recipe?
Feel free to customize your energy balls! Add-ins like chopped nuts, seeds, or sugar-free chocolate chips are great options to vary the texture and flavor. Just remember to adjust the amounts of other ingredients slightly to maintain the proper consistency.