These Chocolate Pecan Energy Bites are reminiscent of the aroma and flavor of chocolate pecan pie but without any added sugar or unhealthy fat. These energy bites take only 5 minutes to make and are the perfect quick and easy snack to enjoy anytime hunger (or an urge for pecan pie) strikes!
Ingredient Quick Guide
You only need 6 simple ingredients for this recipe:
- Medjool dates
- Pecans
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon
- Cocoa powder
- Sea salt
Energy Bite Nutrition Information
As a dietitian, I often recommend snacks that pair healthy fats or protein with a carbohydrate rich food. This combination often tends to work really well to curb hunger and slow the rise of glucose in the blood, which can be especially beneficial for those with insulin resistance. In this recipe, fiber rich dates (a complex carbohydrate source) are paired with pecans (a healthy fat source) for a nutritious snack that is easy and convenient.
Making Chocolate Pecan Energy Bites
Helpful Tips
I use Medjool dates for this recipe. Depending on the freshness of the dates, they can be either moist (making it easier to form balls), or on the dryer side (leading to a more crumbly texture). If your mixture is on the dry side, you can either add a few more dates to the blender, or add in a small scoop of nut butter to help the mixture stick together easier.
Don't be afraid to use your hands to press the mixture together with your fingers.
Wetting hands before rolling into balls will help the mixture come together easier.
Add Ons
If you happen to really love chocolate, (like me), you could also roll in some mini semi-sweet chocolate chips into the balls.
You could also pulse cocoa powder into the mixture giving it a more "chocolatey" taste.
You can use any type of nut you choose. Walnuts or peanuts would also taste delicious in this recipe!
You might also like this recipe for my Peanut Butter Blueberry Energy Bites.
If you try this recipe please give it a STAR RATING BELOW!
Chocolate Pecan Energy Bites
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup Medjool dates
- ½ cup pecans
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅛ tsp sea salt
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
- Add ingredients to a food processor and pulse for 30 sec to one minute until ingredients are thoroughly broken down.
- Using a cookie scooper, portion out mixture to form balls with your hands, pressing the mixture in between fingers so that it sticks together. Place balls on a piece of parchment paper.
- Sprinkle balls with cocoa powder. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
I prefer to focus on quality ingredients from a variety of sources that work in tandem to promote optimal health. Nutrition calculations may not reflect these valuable interactions. However, I understand certain values can be helpful to some. Please note these calculations are merely estimates. Values will vary depending on modifications, brands used, and portion size. Should you require specific information, it's best to consult with a dietitian or qualified healthcare provider.
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