These no-bake pumpkin breakfast bites are a delicious and nutritious way to start your day. Packed with oats, pumpkin seeds, and dried cranberries, they offer a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or a healthy snack, these bites are sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 cup honey
- Optional: If you find the flavor of honey too strong, use 1/4 cup almond butter with 1/4 cup honey instead of the full amount of honey. This will add more protein and help cut the sweetness.
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the oats, canned pumpkin puree, dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds, pumpkin pie spice, and honey (or the honey and almond butter mixture if using).
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Form Balls:
- Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking.
- Take a handful of the mixture and roll it into 1-inch balls.
- Place the balls on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
- Chill:
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 20 minutes, or in the freezer for 10 minutes to set the balls.
- Store:
- Transfer the chilled energy balls to an airtight container.
- Store them in the fridge.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Carbohydrates: 289g
- Protein: 42g
- Fat: 46g
- Sodium: 344mg
- Fiber: 25g
- Sugar: 168g
Serving Suggestions:
- Breakfast: Pair with a glass of milk or a smoothie for a complete breakfast.
- Snack: Perfect as a mid-morning or afternoon snack to keep you energized.
Cooking Tips:
- Texture: If the mixture is too dry to form balls, add a bit more pumpkin puree or honey until it holds together.
- Add-Ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like mini chocolate chips, chia seeds, or flaxseeds for extra flavor and nutrition.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Oats: Rich in fiber, helping to keep you full and aid digestion.
- Pumpkin Seeds: Provide healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc.
- Dried Cranberries: Add a touch of sweetness and are a good source of antioxidants.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free oats if needed.
- Dairy-Free: Naturally dairy-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freeze: Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before eating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: Requires no baking and can be prepared quickly.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
- Delicious: The combination of pumpkin, spices, and cranberries makes these bites flavorful and satisfying.
Conclusion:
These No-Bake Pumpkin Breakfast Bites are a convenient and tasty option for a quick breakfast or snack. With their wholesome ingredients and delightful flavors, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the nutritious benefits these bites offer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
- Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, just make sure it’s smooth and well-cooked.
- What can I substitute for dried cranberries?
- You can use raisins, dried cherries, or chopped dried apricots instead.
- Can I make these without honey?
- Yes, you can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or even date syrup as an alternative sweetener.
- How do I make these gluten-free?
- Simply use certified gluten-free oats to make the recipe gluten-free.
- Can I add protein powder to these bites?
- Yes, you can add a scoop of protein powder to increase the protein content.
- How long do these bites last at room temperature?
- They can last for up to 2 days at room temperature, but it’s best to store them in the fridge for freshness.
- Can I make these with steel-cut oats?
- Steel-cut oats are not recommended as they are too coarse for no-bake recipes. Stick with old-fashioned or quick oats.
- What other seeds can I use instead of pumpkin seeds?
- You can use sunflower seeds, chia seeds, or flaxseeds as an alternative.
- Can I make these bites vegan?
- Yes, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar and ensure that the pumpkin puree is dairy-free.
- Can I double the recipe?
- Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and follow the same steps to make a larger batch.