No-Bake Pecan Pie Bites

No-Bake Pecan Pie Bites are a wholesome, bite-sized treat that delivers all the flavors of classic pecan pie without the hassle of baking. Made with naturally sweet dates, nutty pecans, warm spices, and a rich chocolate coating, these bites are the perfect balance of indulgent and healthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No oven required—quick and easy to prepare
• Naturally sweetened with dates and coconut sugar (or monk fruit)
• Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan-friendly
• Portable and perfect for snacking or gifting
• Rich chocolate coating makes them taste like a decadent dessert
• Freezer-friendly for make-ahead convenience

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup pecans (plus extra for topping)
1 cup pitted dates, soaked
2 tablespoons coconut sugar or monk fruit
Pinch of sea salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
1 ¼ cups chocolate chips

Directions

1. In a food processor, combine pecans, soaked dates, coconut sugar (or monk fruit), sea salt, vanilla, and cinnamon. Process until a sticky dough forms, scraping down the sides as needed.
2. Roll mixture into small balls and flatten slightly with your palm. Place on a lined cookie sheet.
3. Freeze for 15 minutes to firm up.
4. Melt chocolate chips until smooth. Dip each pecan bite into melted chocolate, coating fully.
5. Place a whole pecan on top of each bite. Return to the lined tray.
6. Freeze again until chocolate is hardened. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

• Servings: About 12 bites
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Chill time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Nut Mix: Use a blend of pecans, walnuts, or almonds for a different flavor.
• Extra Chocolatey: Drizzle additional melted chocolate over the top after dipping.
• Spiced Version: Add nutmeg, allspice, or pumpkin spice for holiday flavor.
• Salted Caramel Twist: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before the chocolate hardens.
• Energy Bites: Skip the chocolate coating and enjoy them as natural snack balls.

Storage/Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw for a few minutes before eating.
• Not suitable for reheating.

FAQs

Do I need to soak the dates first?

Yes, soaking makes them softer and easier to blend into a smooth dough.

Can I use Medjool dates?

Yes, Medjool dates work best since they’re soft and naturally sweet.

Can I skip the chocolate coating?

Yes, they’re delicious as simple pecan-date bites without chocolate.

Can I make these sugar-free?

Yes, just use monk fruit sweetener and sugar-free chocolate chips.

Do I need a food processor?

Yes, it helps blend everything into a sticky dough. A high-powered blender may also work.

Can I use another nut instead of pecans?

Yes, almonds, walnuts, or cashews work, but pecans give the most authentic flavor.

How do I keep the chocolate from seizing?

Melt it slowly in short intervals in the microwave or over a double boiler.

Can I add protein powder?

Yes, add 1 scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder for an energy boost.

Can kids help make this recipe?

Yes, it’s a great recipe for kids to help roll the bites and decorate with pecans.

Can I make them into bars instead?

Yes, press the mixture into a lined pan, top with chocolate, chill, and slice into bars.

Conclusion

No-Bake Pecan Pie Bites are an easy, healthy, and indulgent treat that captures the essence of pecan pie in snackable form. With their chewy pecan-date filling and rich chocolate coating, they’re perfect for holiday platters, meal prep snacks, or anytime you want a quick sweet bite.

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