Pumpkin Spice Chai Protein Balls
Brought to you by Bondi Chai
Public Service Announcement: Pumpkin is an AWESOME dessert food.
Americans reading this are like "duh!" The Aussies reading this are squishing their faces in disgust- I know the look well (I've introduced plenty of them to Pumpkin pie).
Upon moving to Australia, seven years ago, I was pumped to see my favourite squash on menus all around town. On pizzas, in salads, even in veggie lasagne. Shortly after I learned that Australians typically view pumpkin as a savoury vegetable (only!)
Come on people, it's not like I'm making broccoli pie. Even zucchini bread is sweet. Amiright?
I'm excited to bring a little American Christmas goodness to OZ this season. If you don't tell anyone about the certain 'ah-hem' vegetable in this recipe I betcha they won't even notice but then you won't get to watch them squirm. Enjoy!
Keep An Open Mind- Carrot Cake Contains A Vegetable.
One thing we Americans love is adding spice to our jack-o-lantern-inspired desserts. Ever heard of a pumpkin spice latte? (Americans, feel free to *eyeroll* but you cannot deny the tastiness).
Unlike our Australian cousins, we Yanks usually bust out the fleshy, orange treats in Autumn and Winter. Since I'm having my sixth hot Christmas in a row I wanted to bring the spicy, pumpkin love to a hot weather dessert. We want as little oven use as possible.
Speaking of oven use, if you're like me you always have punkin' puree in the freezer. If you can't get your hands on an overpriced can of imported puree (via David Jones American foods section) make it yourself with this SUPER easy method. (You'll never eat the canned junk again.)
Bonus: I get to use the free samples I scored from Bondi Chai in this yummy recipe. I dig their brand because it's all-natural, locally made and healthy enough for kids. Keepin' it real in my adopted country. Investigate BC's website here.
AuthorDawnCategorysnacksThese little balls are chock full of healthy protein. If I don’t scarf them after the gym or during an afternoon sugar crash I intend to give them away as little gifts to friends and neighbors.
Add almonds, dates, honey, pumpkin puree, chia seeds, chai powder, and salt in a food processor and pulse. You'll end up with a wet, gooey mixture.
In a large bowl combine oats and coconut flakes- give them a quick mix with your hands. Transfer food processor mixture into the bowl and mix until evenly combined.
Place bowl in refrigerator for 20 minutes or until it hardens a little. Next use a spoon or your hands to shape into little balls. Alternately you can line a baking tray with parchment paper, and press the mixture evenly into pan evenly then cut into bars.
