Every year between Halloween and Thanksgiving, my kids and I either end up wasting tons of unused candy, or nibble on candy all day long. By the time the holidays roll around, I'm already up a few pounds - which is not good. Although I am also health coach, I'm still vulnerable to stress and bad habits, which can lead to a vicious cycle. So this year, I've decided to embrace my sweet tooth and allow myself a little sugar, as long as I'm eating mostly healthy, high fiber and nutrient dense foods, drinking plenty of water and getting enough sleep and exercise. This recipe for Pumpkin Protein Bites checks all the boxes and I hope you enjoy it. It is dairy free, gluten free, high fiber, has plenty of nutrient dense vitamins and protein, and makes a nice snack, dessert and even a quick breakfast. Best of all, the whole process takes about 20 minutes. You can experiment with the proportions and the ingredients depending on your preference and taste. It's also fun to make with kids when they can add their favorite candy. Let me know what you think.
Healthy Pumpkin Protein Bites
Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup of almond or peanut butter
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- 1 banana
- 1/2 scoop protein powder (I prefer Truvani Green Powder)
- 1 cup gluten free oats
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips, smashed pieces of M&Ms, or Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, or Health Bars
- 1/3 cup diced walnuts (optional)
Directions:
1. In a mixing bowl, mash the banana with a fork.
2. Add the nut butter, vanilla, maple syrup and pumpkin puree.
3. Stir in the oats and protein powder. Mixture should feel thick. Add a few more oats if mixture seems too thin.
4. Add the chocolate chips, walnuts or candy pieces as preferred. Let the kids add their favorites.
5. With a spoon, scoop the mixture onto wax paper on a baking sheet, making round balls.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes at 350, depending on your oven.
You can make each scoop any size you want, or scoop into a muffin tin. Let cool for a few minutes, slide onto a plate with a tiny pumpkin and you've got a fun and healthy treat. Enjoy your Pumpkin Protein Bites with a little jam, almond butter or just as is with some coffee or hot chocolate.
Catherine Siroka, is the Publisher of the Westport to Greenwich edition of Macaroni Kid, as well as an integrated health and nutrition coach. If you need any guidance getting on track with your diet, please reach out to me at csiroka67@gmail.com, or visit my website at https://www.truehealthandwellnesscoach.com. I welcome your thoughts!
