Pumpkin spice protein bites

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy snack that will actually fill you up, try these pumpkin spice protein bites packed with nutrients and full of your favorite fall flavors. Pumpkin is a great source of vitamin A, which boosts your immune system. Adding flax seeds to this recipe won’t affect the flavor, but will add omega-3 fatty acids, which may reduce cancer risk. Pecans and almond butter will provide protein to keep you full longer, and of course, you can’t forget the dark chocolate!

1 cup old-fashioned or quick oats

¼ cup pecan halves

¼ cup dark chocolate chips

¼ cup pumpkin puree

2 TBSP almond butter

1-2 TBSP honey

1 TBSP flax seeds

2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

⅛ tsp salt

Directions

1. Pulse all ingredients in food processor to combine so pecans and chocolate chips are in small pieces. Taste and add more honey or pumpkin pie spice as desired.
2. Chill mixture in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Using an ice cream scoop or spoon, form small balls, about 1 ½ inches in diameter.
4. Store bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for several months.

**This recipe is easy to customize—try dates, other nuts and nut butters, or chia seeds!**