30-Minutes Salted Caramel Energy Bites
Quick, no-bake energy balls combining dates, sunflower seed butter, oats, pecans, and shredded coconut for a naturally sweet, high-fiber, allergy-friendly snack.
Equipment
- 1 High-powered blender or food processor
- 1 Medium mixing bowl
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- 1 Baking sheet or plate
- 1 Small bowl for coating
Ingredients
- 4 dozen pitted dates about 3 cups
- ¾ cup creamy sunflower seed butter
- 6 tablespoons warm water
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 ¼ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 6 tablespoons coarsely chopped toasted pecans
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
Instructions
- Blend Dates and Sunflower Butter: Place the pitted dates, creamy sunflower seed butter, warm water, kosher salt, and vanilla extract into a high-powered blender or food processor. Blend until mostly smooth, leaving a few small chunks for texture. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure all ingredients are evenly combined into a sticky, cohesive mixture.
- Combine Oats and Pecans: Transfer the blended date mixture to a medium mixing bowl. Add the rolled oats and coarsely chopped toasted pecans. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a dough-like consistency that is easy to handle but holds together well.
- Prepare Coconut Coating: Pour the unsweetened shredded coconut into a small bowl. This will be used to coat each energy ball, adding flavor, texture, and a visually appealing finish to the snack.
- Shape Energy Balls: Scoop approximately one tablespoon of the date mixture using a spoon or cookie scoop. With slightly damp hands to prevent sticking, roll each portion into a smooth, compact ball, ensuring the mixture holds together without cracking or falling apart.
- Coat with Coconut: Roll each energy ball in the bowl of shredded coconut, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating. Repeat this process with all the remaining dough, arranging the finished balls on a baking sheet or plate for easy storage.
- Chill and Store: Place the energy balls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months for long-term storage. This allows the balls to firm up and maintain their texture, making them ready for grab-and-go snacking anytime.
Notes
- Use soft, fully ripened dates for easier blending and natural sweetness.
- Slightly dampening your hands prevents the mixture from sticking while rolling balls.
- Toast pecans lightly to enhance their flavor and crunch.
- Roll the balls in shredded coconut just before serving for best texture.
- For gluten-sensitive diets, ensure oats are labeled gluten-free.
- Energy balls can be frozen and thawed individually for convenient, long-lasting snacks.
- Adjust salt and vanilla to taste for a perfectly balanced flavor.
