Collagen Pumpkin Pie Protein Bites

I received these products in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Read my disclaimer page for more information.

After becoming a Mom, I’ve been on a constant quest for ENERGY! I don’t know of a mom that is 100% fulfilled in that department. Between children waking up at night, running around after them all day and trying to accomplish housework, cooking meals and working, I am flat out exhausted at the end of the day. I am also realizing that I’m not a high school senior anymore and taking care of my body is my top priority. I cannot take care of my families needs unless mine are met. Trying to tend to others when you are burned out is like trying to clean with kids around, it just isn’t going to happen! Along my quest for health and energy, I stumbled upon Vital Proteins on Instagram. Instagram has introduced me to a lot of my favorite brands and didn’t disappoint with Vital Proteins. I love their products because they are all collagen based.

Collagen is the most abundant protein and second largest substance (behind water) that is found in the human body. Until our twenties, our body naturally produces collagen. As this production slows and eventually ceases, we begin to see the signs of aging. Ahhhhh, why must this happen? I already feel like an old hen after having three kids. Now that I am getting older and my skin is showing age, the Vital Proteins collagen products have become every day essentials to my life! By replenishing collagen levels, it will benefit the building blocks that maintain hair, skin and nails. Let’s call it, the Fountain of Youth!

The Collagen Whey Vanilla and Coconut Water protein powder is one of my favorite products by Vital Proteins. I LOVE the way it tastes and that it’s jam packed with whey protein, probiotics, natural hyaluronic acid and (drum roll please) pasture-raised collagen peptides! This supplement increases athletic performance, hydration, amino acid absorption, and recovery. It also increases protein synthesis, joint flexibility, and helps protein delivery to the body. If you haven’t jumped on the collagen train, there is no better time than NOW!

I decided to combine the Vital Protein collagen whey protein powder with pumpkin and chocolate to form the most scrumptious energy snack evvvaaaaa! If you know me, you know that I love pumpkin everything and am on a mission to make as much pumpkin foods as I can during this season. Check out the recipe below. (These are vegan, paleo, gluten free, kid friendly and most of all delicious!)

PUMPKIN PIE PROTEIN NO-BAKE BITES

Ingredients:
9 Medjool dates, pitted (place in bowl of warm water if hard and dry)
½ cup unsweetened applesauce
3 tbsp pumpkin puree (canned pumpkin)
¼ cup almond milk
½ tsp vanilla extract
½ cup coconut flour
1 scoop of Collagen Whey Vanilla Coconut protein powder
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
½ tsp cinnamon
2 tbsp chocolate chips (optional)

Directions:
1. Add the dates, applesauce, pumpkin, almond milk, and vanilla in a blender. Blend until pureed, scraping down the sides as needed.
2. Add the coconut flour, collagen whey protein powder, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon. Blend until a ball of “dough” forms. If it’s too wet, add a bit more coconut flour. If it’s too dry, add a bit more almond milk.
3. Stir in chocolate chips. Roll into 12-15 bites.
4. Store in the refrigerator or freezer.