These no-bake, gluten-free, 3 ingredients Pecan Pie Energy Bites are the perfect fall-inspired meal prep, pre-workout, and sweet treat.
I’ve done it – these Pecan Pie Energy Bites are the perfect afternoon pick-me-up for this fall.
They are soft, filling, and naturally sweetened by dates.
Additionally, all you have to do is pop them in the freezer and you have a quick and easy snack option for months!
If you like this recipe, you’ll also probably love my Salted Caramel Energy Balls and my Strawberry Crunch Energy Balls.
Are energy bites good for you?
Certainly, these energy balls are filled with wholesome ingredients!
Dates – high in fiber and antioxidants; they are nature’s candy! Helps support brain health and prevent disease.
Learn more about the health benefits of dates here.
Pecans – studies show that pecans may help improve heart health, brain function, and blood sugar control. Plus, they are a great source of healthy fats!
Check out more of the benefits of pecans here.
Coconut Flour – a delicious gluten-free option! It is high in fiber and a great source of protein, potassium, and iron.
Additionally, explore other benefits here.
Oat Flour– oats are full of antioxidants, which may help reduce blood pressure. At the same time, they are a great source of fiber, which helps reduce cholesterol and increases feelings of fullness.
Learn more about their health benefits here.
Why is it important to soak seeds & Nuts before consumption?
Generally, soaking nuts has several benefits to the both the recipe and your body:
- Nutrient absorption – soaking nuts and seeds improves your body’s ability to absorb the vitamins and minerals.
- Improved taste- soaking removes the dust, residue, and tannins from the skin.
- Gooey Protein Balls – without the tannins, the consistency is so much smoother.
- Better for digestion – removes phytic acid which causes indigestion.
- Easier food preparation – now that the pecans are softer, they are so much easier to work with!
Additionally, read more about the logic of soaking nuts here.
Why are they called energy balls?
Energy balls derive their name from the fact that they are loaded with simple ingredients and packed with protein, carbs, and health fats – to fuel you through the day!
There are healthy carbs in the Medjool dates and oat flour. Plus, there’s healthy fats and proteins the pecans and the coconut flour. At the same time, we have got some electrolytes in the salt.
Additionally, if you add collagen or protein powder, you get an extra protein punch.
Energy balls tend to be more easily digestible, which make them the perfect pre-workout. Furthermore, they satisfy my hanger as I am waiting for my dinner to finish up.
What do you need these energy balls for?
Why I love Pecan Pie Energy Bites
Without a doubt, there are a few reasons I am obsessed with this recipe:
- 3 ingredients: household items you probably have on hand!
- No bake: just blend the ingredients together – Viola!
- Collagen: adding some collagen powder makes it that much easier to get my daily dose.
- Travel friendly: it’s so easy to grab a few and toss them in a zip lock bag – toddler approved!
What more could you ask for?
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Energy BItes
Best of all, this recipe mainly consists of 3 major ingredients:
Medjool dates, pitted
Pecans
Salt
Coconut flour or oat flour
Optional add-ins:
Collagen protein, plain or vanilla
How to make Pecan pie energy bItes
First, soak pecans in hot water with a pinch of salt for 4+ hours or overnight.
Then, rinse and drain well.
After, blend the pecans, a pinch of salt, and pitted dates until smooth or desired texture. Generally, if the batter is too wet/gooey, you can add ¼ cup coconut flour or ½ cup oat flour.
After blending, cover and refrigerate for a couple of hours – this makes rolling SO much easier!
Finally, roll the dough into spheres and add crushed pecans if you so desire.
Freeze and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
What could I use instead of dates?
Instead, you can try using dried figs or apricots. In this case, they will likely change the texture, but could be a fun twist!
Is there a sub for pecans?
You can really use most nuts, but then it won’t be pecan energy balls. Notwithstanding, you can use whatever you have on hand.
Can I make THIS NUT-FREE?
On the other hand, you can try pumpkin or sunflower seeds!
How to Store Pecan Pie Energy BITES
Generally, these pecan bites store well in an airtight container in the fridge for about a week.
Can you freeze energy balls?
Yes, they store well in the freezer for about 3 monts! In this case, simply give them some time to dethaw and enjoy!
How to Serve Pecan Pie Energy Bites
In sum, simply pop them in your mouth!
Or, enjoy them slowly with a cup of coffee or tea.
Alternatively, throw them in a zip lock and take them on the go!
Other delicious fall-inspired recipes:
Pumpkin Blondies
Pumpkin scones
Roasted Tomato Soup
What other fall recipes would you like to see? Leave a comment below.
I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOUR CREATIONS! YOU CAN USE “TRIED IT” ON PINTEREST OR SHARE ON INSTAGRAM BY TAGGING #SHUANGYSEATS
Pecan Pie Energy Bites
Ingredients
- 1 – 1 1/3 cup Medjool pitted dates
- 2 cups pecans + more crushed pecans for rolling
- 1/4 tsp of salt
- Coconut flour or oat flour
- Plain or vanilla collagen optional
Instructions
- Soak pecans in hot water with a pinch of salt for 4+ hours or overnight
- Rinse and drain well.
- Blend the pecans, a pinch of salt, and pitted dates until smooth or desired texture. If the batter is too wet/gooey, you can add ¼ cup coconut flour or ½ cup oat flour.*
- Blend, cover, and refrigerate for a couple of hours – this makes rolling SO much easier!
- Roll the dough into spheres and add crushed pecans if you so desire.
- Freeze and enjoy!
Notes
The Nutrition Facts above are specific to the ingredients I chose to use for this recipe, which may vary.
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This does not result in any extra cost for you, but it does mean that I make a commission if you click through and make a purchase.
Leave a Reply