Snack Today: Oatmeal Pumpkin Bites

Paula Gallagher on
Oatmeal pumpkin bites are a healthy, seasonal alternative to Halloween candy.

Halloween is just around the corner and with that comes all the sweets and treats. The bags of candy that come into this house are full of temptation. So how do I control myself from raiding my kids' treat bags? With my own treats, of course! These oatmeal pumpkin bites will satisfy that sweet tooth and I bet your kids will like them, too. The best part is that they whip up in a few short minutes.

Pumpkins contain a rich supply of beta carotene and alpha carotene. Loaded with fiber, vitamins and minerals, you’ll get a mouthful of potassium, magnesium, selenium and lutein in every bite, plus a good dose of vitamins A, C and E. For this recipe, choose a sugar pumpkin, and not the ones you carved for Halloween!

Eating pumpkin has been linked to a lower incidence of type 2 diabetes, and its natural anti-inflammatory properties aid in fighting asthma and arthritis. Pumpkin also helps maintain fluid balance, regulate blood pressure, modulate the immune system, and prevent cataracts and arteriosclerosis. A digestive aid, pumpkin soothes the stomach and decreases bloating and flatulence.

Fiber-rich oats also offer phosphorus, thiamine, immune-boosting zinc, and magnesium. Oats contain beta glucan, a soluble fibrer that can help lower blood levels of total and LDL cholesterol, both of which are considered risk factors for heart disease.

So not only are these sweet snacks delicious, they are also really good for you.

Oatmeal Pumpkin Bites

  • 3 Medjool dates
  • 4 dried apricots
  • 1 tsp coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin purée
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup organic rolled oats
  • 3 Tbsp coconut flour
  • 2 Tbsp hemp hearts
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/8 tsp ground cloves
  • Pinch of finely ground black pepper
  • 1 cup grated carrot
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, for garnish

In a food processor or blender, pulse together dates, apricots, coconut oil, pumpkin purée and vanilla until the ingredients are well combined and dates and apricots have broken down into small pieces. Add rolled oats, coconut flour, hemp hearts, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, pepper and carrot. Pulse until everything is well combined and the mixture sticks together when you pinch it between your fingers.

Roll the mixture into walnut-sized balls before coating in coconut. Enjoy!

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