Pumpkin Spice Energy Bites
Ingredients:
12 pitted dates (If dates appear dry you can soak them in filtered water for an hour to soften them)
1 cup oats, I like Bob’s Red Mill (gluten free)
1/2 cup pecans, walnuts or almonds
1/4 cup pumpkin puree
1 Tbs maple syrup
1.5 tsp Pumpkin pie spice
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/8 tsp sea salt
Instructions:
Add almonds to food processor and process into small pieces. Remove half the almonds and set aside. Add the dates to the remaining almonds and process to fine meal or desired texture.
Add the remaining ingredients to the food process (excluding coconut, if using) and process until mixture begins to stick together. You may need to stop the processor and scrap down the sides with a spatula a few times, and then continue processing until you get the desired texture.
Add in reserves almonds and pulse to incorporate. Once again you may need to stop and scrap down sides and process until you get desired combination.
Remove the blade from the processor. Using your hands or scoop form dough into balls, and place on parchment or wax paper. Optional dough can be pressed into square baking dish, refrigerated and then cut into squares or bars as well.
Health notes:
Dates are among the most alkaline foods, they contain a form of soluble fiber that had been shown to decrease the bodies absorption of cholesterol and slow or delay the absorption of glucose in the small intestine. Studies of dates have revealed that they are high in known antioxidants and anticancer compounds.
Pumpkin is loaded with antioxidant vitamins, A, C and E. It’s an excellent source of Beta-carotene, and Zeaxanthin. Zeaxanthin is has ultra-violet (UV) filtering properties for the body. Pumpkin is a rich source of copper, calcium, potassium and phosphorus.