Hands up if you could eat pumpkin all year round?! The answer here is absolutely yes! However, I do like to temper my pumpkin love until it’s a least close to back to school. So yes, I’m totally not hating on Starbucks for bringing out the PSL mid-August.
So – prepare yourself… this post is one of the first seasonal flavor posts you’ll be seeing over the next few months!
I’ve got lots of yummy fall-inspired recipes for snacks, side-dishes and comfort foods coming your way. But – newsflash for no one… they’ll all have a healthy spin. Low carb and keto-friendly snacks and desserts, healthy Thanksgiving side dishes and some clean eating holiday and Christmas treats coming your way!
Until then… pumpkin spice protein balls.
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Benefits of Pumpkin
So why pumpkin? What makes pumpkin so great for us? Aside from the fact that basically everyone loves pumpkin pie!
Pumpkin in its pure form (I don’t mean pumpkin pie mix) helps to slow digestion. It’s full of fiber! But unlike other sources of fiber like whole grains, it’s a very low in calories. Pumpkin is also full of Vitamin A and Vitamin C. Web MD explains 6 surprising benefits of pumpkin.
Why Should I include protein in my snacks?
Did you ever eat a snack that didn’t include protein? Usually you are starving just a bit later. That’s because protein has the power to keep you fueled! Including protein in your snacks will help to keep you satiated and not craving another snack 20 minutes later. Since these pumpkin spice protein balls include both protein and pumpkin you are getting a protein and fiber filled snack!
Want the Pumpkin Spice Protein Balls Recipe? Keep Scrolling!
Pumpkin Spice Protein Balls
Ingredients
- ¼ cup chopped almonds
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 ½ servings protein powder
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- 1 TB mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Mix until well incorporated. Scoop out approximately 12 balls with a small cookie scooper. Balls will be a firm pumpkin pie consistency. Place balls on plate and freeze for 10 minutes before serving if eating immediately. Store frozen and thaw for 5 minutes before serving.
What Kind of Protein Should I use?
You can choose any kind of vanilla protein powder to include in these pumpkin spice energy balls. Here are a few of my favorite protein and superfood powders I use that make this recipe delicious!
Tone it Up – Vanilla Organic Plant Protein
Orgain Organic Protein
Shakeology – Vanilla Vegan
One of my favorite shakes – Shakeology – is actually coming out with a Pumpkin Spice flavor!
You May Also Like
Healthy Back to School Snacks
Gluten Free Pumpkin Muffins
Keto Fat Bombs – Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup
Are you pumpkin-obsessed too? Did you get your first PSL yet??? Tell me about that pumpkin-love in the comments!!
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