For years, dates have been my number one go-to ingredient to use in my no bake sweet snacks and desserts. Even though they are high in sugar (like most fruit is), I would prefer to eat a date than a spoon of sugar.

Like fruit juice, dates are made up of more than just sugar. They contain fibre, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium and some B vitamins. They may also not be the healthiest fruit, but they work really well in a variety of desserts. I love to use dates as a base in most of my snack balls, no-bake bars, or if I need a natural sweetener in a cookie or frosting. They are little morsels of natural sugar and a great alternative to refined sugars. You don’t need many dates to make something sweet!

They are just one of those snack cabinet staples I can’t live without. Dates are a great snack on their own and they are high in fiber, rich in antioxidants, great for heart health and they provide a little energy boost thanks to the natural sugars. The dried fruit has a caramel-like sweetness that can also help reduce cravings for sugary snacks. I’m always on the hunt though for creative ways to dress up my dates, and I just knew these smashed dates would be delicious!

It’s no secret that no-bake recipes are my favourite. I feel that it’s so much easier to make healthier desserts that are no-bake. Healthier baking with less sugar can easily result in something so tasty and can have a dramatic impact on the texture too. Also, it’s so much more difficult to mess up a no-bake treat, especially if you’re just starting out as a home baker.

As well as being really easy to make, these fudge bites are healthier than your average treat as they are made with wholesome REAL food ingredients. With the added protein powder it makes them more balanced than the traditional high carb recipes. Old fashioned recipes always have tons of sugar, carbs and fats. The new modern way it to add protein making the recipe more balanced and healthy.

Ah…Fudge, but not as you know it. Made with healthier ingredients and boosted with protein and a bonus of no cooking involved!

Protein is king when it comes to diet…

Most people will enter nutrition coaching to upgrade the quality of their food and understanding. If we were only allowed to give one lesson on nutrition; it would be to increase your protein intake and get adequate amounts. This will immediately have an impact on your total caloric intake and have you eating less of the undesirable food. This means it’s a good idea to get some protein in at each meal and snack throughout the day so you meet your needs.

Here are some great reasons why you should do this:

1. Protein Can Increase Your Metabolism (“Calories Out”) Digesting and Metabolising Protein Burns Calories.

This isn’t going to make up a massive amount of your daily calories, but the simple act of digesting protein will require some caloric burn – anywhere from 100– 300+ extra calories burned a day just from choosing protein over the other two macros.

2. Protein Reduces Appetite, Cuts Cravings and Reduces Desire for Late-Night Snacking.

If you have ever had a late-night craving hit (and if you are a human, you most certainly have) then you know they are just about impossible to resist. One of the best tools for this is adequate protein consumption, particularly in the early part of the day. Set yourself up for a winning evening by getting your protein in early

3. Protein Increases Muscle Mass, Helps Prevent Muscle Loss, and Supports Soft Tissue Recovery.

Food and nutrition isn’t just about losing weight, despite what the media wants you to think. Don’t get fooled into thinking less is more. In fact, one thing we coach is that by eating more high quality food you will have more energy to move your body, train, and live a life of vitality.

This includes building quality muscle tissue, which is proven to increase your health span, metabolism, and quality of life. So, use protein as a tool to keep that tissue healthy, recovering quickly, and pain free.

Its all about setting yourself up for success and so you can make yourself strong and healthy.

Chocolate Date Pecan Protein Bites

These date pecan bites are chewy, rich and not too sweet. Seriously fudgy and decadent this protein bite recipe is totally customisable and naturally sweetened. A simple on-the-go snack made with dates, pecans and almonds!

Course Dessert, Snack

Cuisine Healthy Clean Eating

Keyword chocolate covered pecan protein bites, chocolate date pecan protein bites, clean eating dessert or snack, date pecan protein bites no bake, healthy protein bites, no bake date pecan protein bites

Servings 12

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups almond flour
• 1 cup dates, soaked 30 minutes and drained
• 1/3 cup almond butter (any nut or seed) butter
• 1/4 cup protein or collagen peptides powder
• 2 tablespoons any milk
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate Coating

• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• Flaky salt

Instructions

• Add the almond flour, dates, almond butter, protein powder, milk and vanilla to a food processor and blend until you have a smooth fudge like mixture. A few bits of dates remaining is fine as it add to the texture.

  If the dough seems a little dry add more milk a tablespoon at a time and blend again until it comes together. If it seems too wet add more almond flour or protein powder.

  Lastly fold in the chopped pecans.

  Roll into small balls,about 1-2 tablespoons each (I got 12) and place on a parchment paper lined tray or dish.

  Place in freezer for 30 minutes to firm up then melt the chocolate.

Chocolate Coating

• Place chocolate chips and coconut oil in small dish and microwave with 20 second bursts stirring between each one until melted and smooth.

  Or use double boiler method - (pot of boiling water with a bowl resting on top) melt the chocolate chips and the coconut oil together.

  Remove the fudge bites and after checking they are firm and set, use two forks to hold each fudge bite and one by one, dip into the melted chocolate, and roll around until fully coated, then place on a parchment lined tray or dish.

  Sprinkle with flaky salt if desired, then chill until chocolate has set.

  Transfer to the fridge to allow the chocolate to set (around 10 minutes).

  Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freezer for up to 3 months. If frozen allow to thaw for 10 minutes before eating for the best texture.  

Print Recipe

If you are looking for more delicious, healthy, protein-rich, no bake desserts and treats to help you reach your health, wellness and fitness goals, you will love my collection here: Blended Bites