Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls
INGREDIENTS
1⁄2 cup smooth natural cashew butter or creamy natural almond butter 1⁄3 cup canned pumpkin
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup pitted dried Medjool dates, chopped (see Note)
1⁄4 cup pecan halves
1 1⁄4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
3 tablespoons toasted unsalted pepitas 2 tablespoons chia seeds
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1⁄2 teaspoon salt
Directions
Stir together cashew butter (or almond butter), pumpkin and vanilla in a small bowl. Process dates and pecans in a food processor until finely chopped, about 1 minute. Add oats, pepitas, chia seeds, pumpkin pie spice and salt.
Process until fully combined, about 10 (1-second) pulses.
Add the pumpkin mixture; process until fully combined and incorporated, about 10 (1-second) pulses, stopping to scrape down sides as needed.
Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Using a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop or measuring spoon, scoop 24 portions of the oat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
Using clean hands, roll each portion into a ball.
Serve immediately or refrigerate, covered, for up to 5 days.
Notes
To make ahead, refrigerate for up to 5 days
If your dates aren't particularly soft, you can place them in a bowl and pour boiling water over them. Let stand for 10 minutes; drain.
Recipe from: EatingWell.com
Recipe by: Catherine Jessee; Reviewed by: Dietician Emily Lachtrupp, M.S., RD Recipe Modified for ESC Lenten Fast 2024 by LMurdock