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15-Minute Salted Caramel Coconut Cashew

Helen T. Patterson
Delicious, no-bake energy bites made with Medjool dates, cashews, coconut, and a touch of salt.
Perfect for a vegan, gluten-free snack that’s high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Easy to prepare and ideal for breakfast, snacks, or meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine Plant-Based, Vegan
Servings 14 bites

Equipment

  • 1 food processor (for blending ingredients)
  • 1 spatula (for scraping and mixing)
  • 1 bowl (for rolling the bites)
  • 1 Airtight container (for storage)

Ingredients
  

For the energy bites:

  • 1 cup Medjool dates pitted and packed
  • 1 cup roasted cashews or raw if preferred
  • 1/3 cup fine unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons cacao nibs

For rolling (optional):

  • 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Your Ingredients: Before you start, gather all your ingredients to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
    Measure out 1 cup of pitted Medjool dates, 1 cup of roasted cashews (or raw if you prefer a milder nutty flavor), 1/3 cup of fine unsweetened shredded coconut, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of cacao nibs.
    If you plan to roll the bites in extra coconut, also measure 1/2 cup of shredded coconut.
    Having everything ready ensures a seamless, stress-free cooking experience.
  • Blend the Base Mixture: Place the dates, cashews, shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and salt into a food processor.
    Pulse the ingredients in short bursts to combine them evenly. You want to reach a sticky, cohesive texture where the dates are fully broken down and the nuts are finely chopped.
    This stage is crucial because it forms the base that holds the energy bites together.
    Be patient and scrape down the sides of the processor bowl with a spatula to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
  • Incorporate the Cacao Nibs: Once the base mixture is sticky and uniform, add the 2 tablespoons of cacao nibs.
    Pulse the mixture a few more times, just enough to distribute the nibs evenly without crushing them completely.
    The cacao nibs provide a slight crunch and a deep, chocolatey flavor that balances the natural sweetness of the dates, adding texture and a subtle complexity to each bite.
  • Portion and Shape the Bites: Scoop out the mixture using a spoon or a small cookie scoop, aiming for uniform portions.
    Roll each portion gently between your palms to form smooth, round balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
    Take your time shaping them; uniform bites ensure they look appealing and store well.
    If the mixture feels too sticky to handle, lightly wet your hands or refrigerate the mixture for 10–15 minutes to make rolling easier.
  • Roll in Coconut (Optional): If you’d like an extra layer of flavor and texture, pour 1/2 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut onto a plate.
    Roll each energy bite gently in the coconut until coated on all sides. This step adds a nutty aroma, enhances the presentation, and gives a delicate crunch.
    For an even more intense flavor, lightly toast the coconut in a dry pan over medium heat before rolling the bites.
  • Chill and Set: Place the rolled energy bites into an airtight container. Refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to firm up and allow the flavors to meld.
    Chilling helps the bites maintain their shape and makes them easier to eat.
    They’re also fantastic straight from the freezer if you prefer a colder, slightly firmer texture—perfect for a quick, energizing snack.
  • Storage and Enjoyment: Store the energy bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.
    These bites are incredibly versatile: grab one as a post-workout snack, pack them in your lunchbox, or enjoy as a quick breakfast on busy mornings.
    They’re naturally sweetened, satisfying, and packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making them a guilt-free indulgence anytime.

Notes

  • Use soft Medjool dates for the best sticky texture; if your dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes and drain before using.
  • Cashews can be raw or roasted depending on your flavor preference—roasted gives a nuttier depth, while raw keeps it milder.
  • Pulse ingredients carefully in the food processor; over-processing can turn the mixture too smooth, losing the slight texture from nuts.
  • Rolling the bites in toasted coconut enhances flavor and adds a subtle crunch, making them even more appealing.
  • These bites are naturally sweetened and vegan, making them suitable for a variety of dietary needs, including gluten-free and grain-free diets.