Pumpkin Pie Energy Bites { Protein Balls }

I don't know about you but I'm SOOOO EXCITED for Pumpkin - EVERYTHING!!!! Fall is my favourite time of the year! This is one of my favourite recipes from the FIX- ATE ( 21 Day Fix Cookbook!! ) 

Ingredients : 

1 cup - pitted dates 

warm water

1/2 cup raw pecans halves ( or pecan pieces ) 

1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree

1/4 unsweetened coconut flakes , reserve small amount for garnish 

1 Tsp. pure hazelnut extract ( or maple extract) 

1 Tsp. pure maple syrup 

2 Tsp. Pumpkin pie spice 

1 pinch sea salt ( or Himalayan salt )

Directions :

1. Place dates in a medium bowl; cover with water. Let soak for 10 minutes. Drain. Set aside. 

2. Place pecans in food processor; pulse until finely ground. 

3. Add dates, pumpkin, coconut, extract, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and salt; pulse until well mixed. Place in a medium bowl. Refrigerate, covered, for 30 minutes. 

4. Using clean hands, roll into tablespoon- sized balls; roll in reserved coconut if desired. 

5. Store, refrigerated, in airtight container. 

The whole Family loved these ! Including little Miss. Kennedy!

*Serves 16
*21 Day Fix Container Equivalents (per serving ) 1/2 yellow 1/2 Tsp.