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Pecan Pie Energy Balls are the perfect fall or winter snack when you want something quick, easy and healthy. These energy balls are made with just 5 simple ingredients and take 15 minutes to make.
Healthy pecan pie bites
If you’re looking for a quick, nutritious snack that satisfies your sweet tooth, this is the perfect snack for you! These bite-sized treats are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits and made with just 5 ingredients. Energy balls are ideal for a mid-day pick-me-up or a post-workout snack.
These energy balls are similar to my recipe for salted caramel bliss balls, and Carrot Cake Energy Balls but are made with pecans to give them that unmatched flavour of pecan pie with no added sugar. If you love pecan pie flavour, also try my Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal for breakfast.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples like pecans, dates, and shredded coconut, these energy balls are straightforward to prepare in just 15 minutes.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with healthy fats from pecans and natural sugars from dates, they offer a balanced blend of energy.
- Versatile Snacking: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick breakfast, an office snack, or a post-exercise recharge!
Ingredients for pecan pie energy balls
- Dates: Dates provide a natural sweetness and a chewy texture, serving as the perfect base for these energy balls. Medjool dates work best (see my tips below). For another date-sweetened snack, try my Chocolate Date Balls.
- Pecans: Pecans add a rich, buttery flavour and a satisfying crunch, essential for that authentic pecan pie taste! Have leftover pecans? Use them in a batch of Healthy Pecan Pie Bars!
- Shredded Coconut: Shredded coconut offers a subtle tropical hint and a delightful texture contrast in the energy balls. If you don’t like coconut you can leave this out.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavour profile, bringing a warm, aromatic essence.
- Salt: Just a pinch of salt is crucial to balance the sweetness and elevate the flavours of all the other ingredients.
How to make pecan pie balls
Step 1
Add the dates, pecans, shredded coconut, vanilla extract and salt to a food processor.
Step 2
Pulse until it forms a sticky dough. It should be sticky enough that you can press it between your fingers, but still has a little texture to it as pictured below.
Step 3
Roll into even balls and optionally roll into some more shredded coconut to coat. Place the energy balls in the fridge for at least 1 hour to set.
How To Store
Keep the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks (they get too soft at room temperature). To freeze, set them on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then move them to a freezer bag for up to a month. Let them thaw for a few minutes before eating.
Expert tips for making energy balls
- Use Medjool dates: Medjool dates have a particular caramel-like taste to them compared to other types of dates that will give these energy balls the best flavour. They are also stickier than other types of dates making them the perfect base for this recipe.
- Proper Processing: Blend the ingredients until they reach a sticky, cohesive consistency. Don’t over-process the ingredients as you want the energy balls to maintain some texture.
- Spice It Up: Try adding some cinnamon or nutmeg to these energy balls!
- Use a tablespoon to measure: Keep the balls uniformly sized by using a tablespoon to scoop out even amounts of dough for rolling.
- Soak dry dates: If your dates are on the dry side, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes and drain well before blending so the dough comes together.
- Want more protein? Try my Pumpkin Protein Balls or Gingerbread Protein Balls.
- Add them to a holiday platter: They make an easy no-bake treat next to my Healthy Mini Pecan Pies and Healthy Pecan Pie Bars.
Frequently asked questions
Yes! While pecans give the classic pecan pie flavour, almonds or walnuts can be great substitutes.
Yes, they are gluten-free, making them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or on a gluten-free diet.
These energy balls are made with healthy ingredients like pecans and dates making them a healthy snack option.
Try these energy ball recipes next!
- Matcha Energy Balls
- Key Lime Pie Energy Balls
- Trail Mix Energy Balls
- Carrot Cake Energy Balls
- Chocolate Coconut Energy Balls
If you tried these Pecan Pie Energy Balls or any other recipe on the blog let me know how you liked it by leaving a comment/rating below! Be sure to follow along on Pinterest, Instagram, Tiktok and Facebook for even more deliciousness!
Pecan Pie Energy Balls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 balls
- Category: Snack
- Method: Blend
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Pecan pie energy balls are the perfect easy snack!
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted Medjool dates
- 1 cup pecans
- 3 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut, plus more for rolling
- pinch of salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Add the Medjool dates, pecans, shredded coconut, vanilla extract and salt to a food processor and pulse until it forms a sticky dough.
- Roll into balls, about one tablespoon per ball and then roll into a plate of shredded coconut to top if desired.
- Store in the fridge in an airtight container.
Notes
These energy balls must be stored in the fridge or freezer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3.3g
- Protein: 3g
These were super easy to make and really hit the spot when I wanted something sweet but still kinda healthy. They taste like dessert but in a snackable little bite. Definitely keeping a batch in the fridge from now on.