No-bake Pecan Pie Bites Recipe
Introduction
No-bake pecan pie bites are a delicious and easy treat that capture all the flavors of classic pecan pie without turning on the oven. These bite-sized snacks combine pecans, dates, and chocolate for a naturally sweet and satisfying dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecans
- 1 cup pitted dates, soaked
- 2 tbsp coconut sugar or monk fruit
- Pinch of sea salt
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1 1/4 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Step 1: Add all ingredients except the chocolate chips into a food processor. Blend until a sticky dough forms, scraping down the sides occasionally. This process may take a few minutes.
- Step 2: Roll the sticky mixture into balls and place them on a lined cookie sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand. Freeze for about 15 minutes to firm up.
- Step 3: Melt the chocolate chips until smooth. Dip each cookie bite into the melted chocolate, then return them to the cookie sheet. Place a pecan on top of each bite.
- Step 4: Return the cookie sheet to the freezer and allow the chocolate to harden completely before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free option, substitute pecans with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
- Soak dates in warm water for 10 minutes if they are dry, to help achieve a smoother dough.
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon.
Storage
Store pecan pie bites in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. When ready to enjoy, allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these without a food processor?
Using a food processor is best for achieving the right sticky dough texture. Without one, you can finely chop the pecans and mash the dates by hand, but it may be more difficult to combine thoroughly.
Are these bites gluten-free and vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan, using only nuts, dates, and plant-based ingredients.
PrintNo-bake Pecan Pie Bites Recipe
These No-bake Pecan Pie Bites are a delicious and healthy treat combining the natural sweetness of dates with the crunch of pecans and a rich chocolate coating. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, they require no baking and come together in just a few simple steps, making them an ideal energy-boosting bite for any time of day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 20 bites 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Base Mixture
- 1 cup pecans
- 1 cup pitted dates, soaked
- 2 tbsp coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener
- Pinch of sea salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
Coating
- 1 1/4 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Base Mixture: Add pecans, soaked dates, coconut sugar or monk fruit, sea salt, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using) to a food processor. Pulse until a sticky dough forms, scraping down the sides occasionally. This ensures an even, cohesive mixture.
- Form the Bites: Roll the sticky dough into small balls and place them on a lined cookie sheet. Gently flatten each ball slightly with your palm to create bite-sized discs.
- Chill: Place the formed bites in the freezer for about 15 minutes to firm up and make them easier to handle during chocolate dipping.
- Melt Chocolate: While the bites chill, melt the chocolate chips until smooth using a microwave or double boiler, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Dip and Decorate: Dip each chilled bite into the melted chocolate to coat it fully. Return the coated bites to the cookie sheet and place a pecan on top for garnish.
- Freeze to Set: Place the cookie sheet back in the freezer until the chocolate hardens completely, about 15-20 minutes.
Notes
- Store the pecan pie bites in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain their freshness and texture.
- If you prefer or are allergic to pecans, substitute with any other nut of your choice like walnuts or almonds.
Keywords: no bake, pecan pie bites, healthy snacks, vegan desserts, gluten free desserts, chocolate coated, energy bites
