Date Bites
on Aug 11, 2025
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Chewy, naturally sweet date bites made with pecans, shredded coconut, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. A quick, no-bake treat perfect for lunchboxes or a healthy snack anytime.
These no-bake date bites are the perfect mix of sweet, nutty, and chewy—made with just five wholesome ingredients and ready in minutes. The dates bring all the natural sweetness, while the pecans and coconut add a nutty flavor and just the right amount of texture. They’re perfect for tossing in lunchboxes, keeping in the fridge for quick snacks, or grabbing when you need a little afternoon treat. Make a batch once, and you’ll be set for the week!
If you have extra dates on hand, you can turn them into this sweet date milk that can be enjoyed hot or cold. And if you’re looking for more bite-sized snacks, try out these berry bliss balls for a fun way to use up any leftover berries!
Table of Contents
What You’ll Need
Here is what you’ll need to make these date bites:
- Dates: The natural sweet base and binding agent. I love using Medjool dates best for their softness and sweet caramel flavor.
- Pecans: Add richness and crunch.
- Unsweetened Shredded Coconut: Adds texture and a light tropical flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: A touch of warmth and depth in each bite.
- Salt: Just a pinch to elevate the sweetness and balance flavors.
See the recipe card below for full information on ingredients and quantities.
Ingredient Substitutions & Additions
- Dates: If you don’t have dates, well-soaked dried apricots or raisins can work, but the flavor will be different.
- Pecans: Swap with almonds or walnuts. You can also replace them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
- Coconut: You can swap shredded coconut with equal parts rolled oats.
- Add-Ins: Mini chocolate chips, chia seeds, or a sprinkle of cinnamon can personalize them to your taste.
Step By Step Instructions
STEP 1: Add dates, pecan, shredded coconut, vanilla, and salt to a food processor. Pulse until the mixture starts to stick together. You’ll know you pulsed it enough if it holds together when you try to clump a portion together with your hands (Images 1 & 2).
STEP 2: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls (Images 3 & 4).
STEP 3: Refrigerate the date bites for 15 to 20 minutes, or until firm.
Storage Instructions
Once set, store the date bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge for a few minutes or eat straight from the freezer for a chilled treat.
Tips For Success
- Don’t over-pulse the mixture because if you over-pulse, the pecans will begin to release natural oils, and it may be more difficult to work with.
- If the mixture is too sticky, add a little extra shredded coconut or pecans. If the mixture is hard to pulse, use a spoon to scrape down the sides as needed.
- If your dates are soft and sticky, no soaking is needed. If they feel dry or tough, soak them in warm water for 5–10 minutes, then drain well before using.
- Use a small cookie scoop for uniform bites.
Recipe FAQs
Yes! You can replace the pecans with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Just note that the overall taste will be different, but still sweet!
Definitely! You can roll these in extra shredded coconut, finely chopped nuts, or dip them into melted chocolate for an extra sweet treat.
A high-powered blender may work, but a food processor works best since it can handle the sticky texture of dates without overheating. If using a blender, work in small batches and scrape down the sides often.
If your dates are soft and sticky, no soaking is needed. If they feel dry or tough, soak them in warm water for 5–10 minutes, then drain well before using.
Other Bite-Sized Treats You’ll Love
Berry Bliss Balls
Coconut Balls
Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bites
If you tried these Date Bites, please leave a ⭐ star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below! I love hearing from you!
Date Bites
Equipment
Ingredients
- 10 Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 cup pecans
- ¼ cup unsweetend shredded coconut
- ½ tsp vanilla
- ⅛ tsp salt
Instructions
- Add dates, pecan, shredded coconut, vanilla, and salt to a food processor. Pulse until the mixture starts to stick together. You'll know you pulsed it enough if it holds together when you try to clump a portion together with your hands
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls
- Refrigerate the date bites for 15 to 20 minutes, or until firm.
Notes
- Don’t over-pulse the mixture because if you over-pulse, the pecans will begin to release natural oils, and it may be more difficult to work with.
- If the mixture is too sticky, add a little extra shredded coconut or pecans. If the mixture is hard to pulse, use a spoon to scrape down the sides as needed.
- If your dates are soft and sticky, no soaking is needed. If they feel dry or tough, soak them in warm water for 5–10 minutes, then drain well before using.
- Use a small cookie scoop for uniform bites.
