Pecan Pie Energy Bites
These pecan pie energy bites taste like the classic pie but are a wholesome no-bake snack that are rich, nutty and naturally sweetened with Medjool dates and maple syrup. Perfect for meal prep!
These pecan pie energy bites are made with only 7-ingredients that pack a tasty punch! Toasted pecans combined with wholesome oats, chia seeds, warm cinnamon, Medjool dates and maple syrup are sweet, chewy and the perfect bite-sized treat when you need a pick-me-up.
Just like my salted caramel energy bites and no bake energy bites no oven is required for these bliss balls and they can be meal prepped in only 15 minutes! If you love my pecan pie bars, you will love these healthier snack sized treats that taste like the classic dessert.
Table of Contents
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: No-bake pecan pie energy bites require only 7 simple ingredients, 15 minutes prep and no need to turn on the oven. The perfect breakfast, snack or dessert.
- Meal prep friendly: Pecan pie energy balls stay well in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Great for anytime you need a wholesome snack boost!
Ingredient Notes
- Pecans: I prefer raw pecan half pieces and like to roast them for a few minutes as it adds so much toasty flavor. Other nuts such as almonds or walnuts could be used.
- Medjool dates: Soft Medjool dates add natural sweetness and are easiest to blend with the other ingredients. If your dates are not pitted, you will need to remove the pits.
- Oats: Rolled oats add structure to the energy bites, use gluten-free if necessary.
- Maple Syrup: Any liquid sweetener works such as honey but to keep these vegan use real maple syrup – not pancake syrup.
- Cinnamon: Adds warm flavor to the bites!
- Chia Seeds: Adds a nutritional boost plus a little crunch.
- Salt: Enhances overall flavor in the maple pecan energy bites.
How to Make Pecan Pie Energy Bites
In the bowl of a food processor add pecans, Medjool dates, oats, maple syrup, chia seeds, cinnamon, and salt then pulse until well combined and a sticky texture.
Form mixture into balls, place on a parchment paper lined baking sheet and chill for at least 30 minutes then enjoy as a healthy snack!
Flavor Boosts for Pecan Pie Energy Bites
While these pecan bites are delicious as is, here are a few flavor boosts to amp up the pecan pie flavor!
- Toast the pecans: I used the oven to toast the pecans at 350°F for 5-8 minutes but you could quickly do it on the stovetop in a skillet for 2-3 minutes as well. Cool before adding to the food processor.
- Add-ins: Mini chocolate chips, dried cranberries or flaxseed would be delicious add-ins!
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Type of dates: Other dates can be used such as deglet noor dates, but they may need to be soaked in warm water first to soften.
- Mini cookie scoop: A mini cookie scoop about 1 ½ Tablespoons works great to scoop evenly sized pecan pie balls!
- Too sticky: If you are having trouble forming the pecan pie energy bites into balls, pop the mixture into the freezer for a few minutes and then try rolling them.
- Nut butter: Almond butter is a delicious add in and adds more nutty flavor. You may need to add more oats or another binder such as crushed graham cracker crumbs.
- Protein powder: I have not tested these pecan balls with protein powder and in my experience it is a thirsty ingredient! You may need to add more liquid such as melted coconut oil if adding protein powder.
How to Store Pecan Pie Energy Balls
- Store: Store the no bake energy balls in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. They are the best treat chilled from the fridge!
- Freeze: I like to flash freeze these first so they don’t stick together then store in an airtight freezer friendly bag up to 3 months. Thaw slightly to room temperature for 5-10 minutes then enjoy.
More Snacks and Energy Bite Recipes
- No Bake Energy Bites
- Frozen Peach And Almond Yogurt Clusters
- Easy British Flapjack Recipe
- Salted Caramel Energy Bites
- Simple Morning Glory Muffins
Pecan Pie Energy Bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecans (roasted)
- 1 cup pitted medjool dates
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds
Instructions
- Pre-heat oven to 350 ℉ (180℃.)
- Roast pecans on a baking sheet for 5-8 minutes in the pre-heated oven then transfer them into a bowl to cool.
- In a food processor add all the ingredients and pulse until well combined and sticky.
- Form mixture into balls and chill for at least 30 minutes. Then store in an airtight container and refrigerate for a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Enjoy!
This looks like a great recipe, but where can I purchase the DATES?
Hi Maria, dates can be found in regular grocery stores. I find them usually in the dry fruit and nuts section or in the baking section of my local store.