These energy bites combine pecans and oats with apple and dates to create a chewy sweet treat.
These energy bites are one of my favorite transportable healthy snacks. There’s just something so deliciously classic about the combination of apple, pecans, oats, and cinnamon.
Let’s be honest – they’re also way easier to make than actual apple pie.
The ingredients in this recipe are pretty simple and you probably have most of them on hand already.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Apple: Opt for organic if possible and use whichever type is your favorite! (I’m a Gala girl.) Apples are a great source of soluble fiber, which benefits digestion and supports weight loss by increasing satiety.
- Oats: Oats are another source of healthy dietary fiber. They also contain beta-glucans, polysaccharides that may boost the immune system and help keep blood sugar levels stable.
- Dates: Dates are my favorite natural sweetener. Besides sweetness from carbohydrates, (great for quick energy!) dates provide fiber and essential minerals like potassium and magnesium.
- Pecans: Pecans are a great source of healthy monounsaturated fats that have been linked with improvements in cholesterol and blood lipid levels.
- Hemp seeds: Hemp seeds are my favorite add-in for an extra boost of plant-based protein. They’re also a source of essential fatty acids.
- Apple pie flavorings: Last but not least, you’ll need vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg so make these babies taste like a bite of apple pie.
To prepare, just toss everything in the food processor and pulse a few times, until everything is well-combined. Process more if you prefer a smoother texture. The result should feel a little bit like dough. Grab about a tablespoon at a time and roll into a ball with your hands. I love these rolled in extra ground cinnamon but feel free to skip this step.
You’ll want to cover and store them in the freezer to set for at least a half hour before serving.
They’re great for tossing in your bag for a healthy on-the-go snack but I also love them for a wholesome dessert. Sometimes, I just want a bit or two of something sweet and these totally hit the spot.
I hope you love them as much as I do!

- 1 large apple chopped
- 1 cup pecans
- 1/2 cup dates pitted
- 1/2 cup rolled oats gluten free if needed
- 1/4 cup hemp seeds
- 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon + additional for rolling
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- pinch vanilla bean or pure vanilla extract
- Combine ingredients in a food processor and pulse until dough-like consistency formed.
- Use hands to roll dough into balls, roll in cinnamon if desired, and store in freezer for at least 30 minutes before serving.
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This month’s Recipe Redux theme is all about pie! You can find more delicious recipe inspiration below!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine says
Yum! Apples and pecans are a great combo together!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine recently posted…The Best Gluten-Free, Allergy-Friendly Cereal & Granola List
Steph | The Grateful Grazer says
Thanks, Rebecca! So good, right?!
Trish says
Yum! These sound and look amaze-balls 🙂
Trish recently posted…Southwestern Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Steph | The Grateful Grazer says
Thanks, Trish! That’s a pretty appropriate way to describe them! 🙂
sarah says
yum! I’m all for portable pie 🙂
sarah recently posted…Teriyaki Tofu “Jerky”
Steph | The Grateful Grazer says
Thanks, Sarah! They’re super convenient for taking to the gym or running errands!
Lee says
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Steph | The Grateful Grazer says
Thank you so much for these kind words, Lee! My blog is my happy space to share tips and recipes with others. 🙂 Please feel free to share away and let me know if there is anything else I can help you with!