Introduction

Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Balls are a delicious and nutritious snack perfect for fall or anytime you crave a wholesome treat. These creamy, spiced bites combine pumpkin puree and cottage cheese for a creamy texture, topped with rich dark chocolate for an indulgent finish.

The image shows small round pumpkin-colored balls with a rough texture, stacked two high in the center, each topped with thin swirls of dark chocolate. Surrounding the main stack are several more of these pumpkin-colored balls, all drizzled with dark chocolate in random patterns. The treats are placed on a smooth white marbled surface, next to a bright red autumn leaf for decoration. The overall look is warm and inviting, with a focus on the soft texture and chocolate drizzle. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese (full fat)
1 cup pumpkin puree
1/3 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
1/2 cup coconut flour
1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
⅓ cup sweetener
1 tsp vanilla extract
dark chocolate (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, pumpkin puree, sweetener, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add the protein powder, coconut flour, and pumpkin pie spice to the mixture. Blend on low or pulse until well combined, scraping down the sides as needed.
Step 3: Transfer the mixture to the fridge and chill for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Step 4: Once chilled, scoop out the mixture and roll into 1-inch balls. Place them on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper.
Step 5: Melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth.
Step 6: Drizzle the melted chocolate over the pumpkin balls using a spoon, or dip the balls into the chocolate for a thicker coating.
Step 7: Return the pumpkin balls to the fridge for 15–20 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.
Step 8: Serve chilled or let sit a few minutes to soften slightly. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Tips & Variations

Use your favorite sweetener, such as honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute, to suit your taste and dietary needs.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture before blending.
Swap dark chocolate for white or milk chocolate if preferred, or skip the topping for a simpler snack.
Roll the balls in chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or cinnamon for added texture and visual appeal.

Storage

Store the pumpkin balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge or left out for a few minutes to soften. For longer storage, freeze the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

How to Serve

A woman's hand is holding a small round orange cookie with a textured surface, drizzled with dark brown chocolate on top in thin, uneven lines. More of these cookies are scattered on a white marbled surface below, each similarly decorated with chocolate drizzle. In the background, there are two small orange pumpkins, one slightly out of focus, adding a fall theme to the scene. The overall look is cozy and autumnal. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these pumpkin balls without a blender?

While a blender or food processor helps achieve a smooth and creamy texture, you can mix the ingredients by hand using a whisk or spoon, though the texture may be a bit chunkier.

Are these pumpkin balls suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, using coconut flour and protein powder helps keep the carb content lower than traditional snacks. Adjust sweetener choices to fit your dietary goals for best results.