No-Bake Pumpkin Cookie Dough Balls
I know I probably say this often and you’re going to be like ya, ya, ya Christina, we get it, you have a weird love for protein balls….but these ones are hands down the best I’ve ever made! So just forget what I’ve said about all the other ones. The combination of pumpkin spice and the chewy texture of these just make my taste buds SO freaking happy! Wondering what to do with the extra few tablespoons of pumpkin you have on hand from an open can? Make these without even thinking twice…yes, they’re worth it and your pumpkin craving taste buds will thank you.
Not only is the texture and taste of of these just perfect for the season, but they’re made with pumpkin puree which has a whole host of health benefits. Did you know pumpkin contains more potassium than a banana? Pumpkin also contains a handful of minerals including copper, manganese, zinc, iron, selenium and magnesium. It’s also full of vitamin C, vitamin E, and is a great source of beta-carotene. One tip when buying canned pumpkin puree, check to make sure you’re buying just 100% pumpkin without any added sugars. You can check this by simply reading the ingredient list to ensure there isn’t anything else added. These can also be Whole 30 and Paleo compliant by leaving out the chocolate chips. So go ahead, whip up a batch of these and share them with your friends, family, co-workers, or really anyone and I promise they will thank you!
Dairy free, gluten free, Paleo (without chocolate), Whole 30 (without chocolate), grain free
Yield: 8 balls
Ingredients
· ½ cup almond butter
· 1 tbsp chia seeds
· 2 tbsp pumpkin puree
· 2 scoop Vital Proteins collagen (or any unflavored/vanilla collagen)
· 1 scoop vanilla Nuzest Clean Lean protein powder (code: dairyfreedelish for 15% off anything on their site)
· 2 tbsp coconut flour
· 1 tbsp pumpkin spice
· 2 tbsp shredded unsweetened coconut
· ¼ cup chocolate chips (I use Lily’s)
· 1 dropperful of liquid stevia (or maple syrup/honey if preferred)
· 4 tbsp water
Directions
In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds, water, and collagen and let sit for 5 minutes to thicken to a gel-like texture
Once chia mixture resembles a gel, add the rest of the ingredients to a large mixing bowl including the chia gel and mix well. I actually prefer to use my hands but you could use a handheld electric mixer if you have one. Mixture will be very sticky (I use a spatula to scrape off the excess mixture from my hands)
Once dough is mixed, refrigerate it for about 10 minutes to make it easier to roll
Form dough into 8 balls
Store in the fridge if not consumed right away or freeze
Enjoy!
