These Pumpkin Coconut Energy Balls are a tasty treat packed with nutrients! They combine creamy pumpkin, sweet coconut, and crunchy nuts into a bite-sized snack that’s perfect for on-the-go energy.
Making these little goodies is a breeze! I love rolling them up while listening to my favorite tunes. Plus, they’re great for sharing (or keeping all to myself, no judgment here!) 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled oats: These create a great base and texture. But you can also use quick oats or gluten-free oats if needed. I find that a blend of both gives a nice chewiness.
Canned pumpkin puree: Always go for pure pumpkin and not the spiced pie filling. If you can’t find it, sweet potato puree works as a tasty substitute.
Nut butter: Almond butter is my go-to for its creaminess. Peanut butter or sunflower seed butter are also great options, especially for nut allergies.
Honey or maple syrup: Both sweeteners add nice flavor. Maple syrup is perfect for a vegan version. Adjust the amount depending on your sweetness preference!
Shredded coconut: I love using unsweetened coconut for control over sweetness. If coconut doesn’t suit you, try using ground almonds or even crushed graham crackers!
How Can I Ensure My Dough Isn’t Too Wet or Dry?
Getting the right consistency is key to rolling the perfect energy balls. If your mixture feels wet or sticky, that’s okay! You have the power to fix it. Add a tablespoon of rolled oats a little at a time until it binds better. On the flip side, if it’s too dry, mix in a smidge more pumpkin or nut butter.
- Mix well after each addition to gauge the new consistency.
- Chilling the mixture helps it set and prevents it from being too sticky when rolling.
Remember, the mixture should be sticky but manageable, allowing you to shape them easily!
How to Make Pumpkin Coconut Energy Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 cup almond butter or other nut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut (plus extra for rolling)
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds or mixed nuts
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 1 hour to chill. You’ll spend a little time mixing and rolling your energy balls, and then just let them set in the refrigerator—simple and straightforward!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, pumpkin seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Stir well to mix everything up and ensure that the spices are evenly distributed.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Next, add the pumpkin puree, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until everything is blended and a sticky dough forms. If the mixture is too wet, you can add a tablespoon of oats to help it hold together. If it feels too dry, just add a bit more pumpkin or nut butter until you get the right consistency.
3. Chill the Mixture:
Once everything is combined, cover the bowl and put it in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes. This will help the mixture firm up a bit, making it easier to roll into balls.
4. Shape the Energy Balls:
After chilling, take the mixture out of the fridge. With clean hands, roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls—about 1 inch in diameter works great!
5. Coat with Coconut:
Now, roll each ball in the extra shredded coconut to coat the outside and give it a lovely finish. This adds a nice texture and flavor!
6. Chill Again:
Once you’ve rolled all your energy balls, place them on a tray and pop them back into the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps them firm up even more, making them perfect for snacking later.
7. Store and Enjoy:
After they’re set, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last up to one week—if they last that long! Enjoy them as a nutritious snack any time you need a little energy boost!
Can I Use Different Types of Nuts in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the chopped almonds with any nuts you prefer or have on hand, such as walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts. You can also use a nut blend for added texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Energy Balls?
Store your energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just make sure to separate them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
Can I Make These Energy Balls Vegan?
Yes, just swap out honey for maple syrup, and you’re all set! The rest of the ingredients are already vegan-friendly. Enjoy your delicious vegan snack!
What If the Mixture is Too Sticky?
If the mixture feels too sticky to roll, don’t worry! You can add a tablespoon of rolled oats at a time until the texture improves. If it’s still too sticky after that, chilling it for a bit longer will help!