October 7, 2022
This holiday season, skip the boring chips and dips! Treat your guests to healthy, delicious appetizers that won’t overstuff them before the main event. Just in time for autumn celebrations, check out our Pumpkin Coconut Energy Balls recipe; then download the handout for more party perfect appetizers.
Pumpkin Coconut Energy Balls – Serves 10
INGREDIENTS:
- 1½ cups old-fashioned oats
- ⅓ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ½ cup chopped slivered almonds (optional)
- ¾ cup canned pumpkin
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
PREPARATION:
Preheat oven to 300° F. Place oats, coconut and almonds (if using) on a large rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or nonstick foil. Bake, stirring once or twice until lightly browned, 8 – 10 minutes. Allow mixture to cool completely.
Combine the pumpkin, honey, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and cayenne in a large mixing bowl. Stir in the toasted oat mixture. Shape the mixture into 20 balls, about 2 teaspoons each. Place balls on a serving tray. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to two days.
TIP! Try with Mike’s Hot Honey! Or, make your own hot and spicy honey for dipping by bringing 2 chiles and honey to a bare simmer in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Reduce heat to low and let cook 1 hour to infuse. Taste honey and adjust heat with another chile or two, remove from stove, and let sit 30 minutes. Transfer to a small jar, straining if desired. Cover and chill.
