If you’re looking for a naturally sweet, satisfying, and nutritious treat, these No-Sugar Delight Bites are just what you need. Packed with wholesome ingredients, these bite-sized snacks are perfect for anyone looking to indulge in something sweet without added sugars. Whether you’re on a refined sugar-free diet, trying to maintain a balanced lifestyle, or simply craving a healthier dessert, this recipe will hit the spot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No refined sugar – These bites get their natural sweetness from dates and dried cranberries.
- Nutritious and energy-boosting – Packed with nuts, seeds, and oatmeal for fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
- Quick and easy to make – With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, you’ll have a delicious treat in no time.
- Perfect for meal prep – These store well in the fridge or freezer, making them a convenient grab-and-go snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 120g (4 ounces) dates
- 50g (1.8 ounces) dried cranberries
- 30g (1 ounce) oatmeal
- 60g (2 ounces) almonds
- 30g (1 ounce) peanuts
- 20g (0.7 ounces) pumpkin seeds
- 15g (0.5 ounces) sesame seeds
- 15ml (0.5 fluid ounces) honey
- 130g (4.6 ounces) dark chocolate without sugar
- 20ml (0.7 fluid ounces) olive oil
- 10g (0.4 ounces) pumpkin seeds for garnish
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Small saucepan
- Food processor or blender
- Baking sheet or molds
- Parchment paper
- Spatula
- Knife & cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Ingredients
Start by soaking the dates and dried cranberries in cold water for about 15 minutes. This helps soften them and removes any preservatives that may have been added.
2. Toast the Nuts
While the dates and cranberries are soaking, toast the almonds and peanuts separately in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant. This enhances their flavor and adds a slight crunch to your bites.
3. Blend the Base
Drain the dates and cranberries, then place them in a food processor along with the toasted almonds. Pulse until you get a coarse, sticky mixture.
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients
Chop the toasted peanuts and add them to the mixture. Then, fold in the oatmeal, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, and honey. Stir well to combine.
5. Shape and Chill
Using your hands or a mold, form the mixture into small balls (or press into molds for a uniform shape). Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.
6. Melt the Chocolate
In a small saucepan or using a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate and olive oil together over low heat. Stir continuously until smooth and glossy.
7. Coat and Garnish
Remove the chilled bites from the fridge and drizzle or dip them in the melted chocolate. Sprinkle with extra pumpkin seeds for a decorative touch.
8. Chill Again & Enjoy
Refrigerate the bites for another 15-20 minutes to let the chocolate set. Once firm, they’re ready to enjoy!
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to two months. Just thaw for a few minutes before eating.
Recipe Variations & Swaps
- Nut-free version – Swap almonds and peanuts for sunflower seeds or extra pumpkin seeds.
- Different sweeteners – Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.
- Extra crunch – Add shredded coconut or chia seeds for additional texture.
- Spice it up – Mix in cinnamon or a dash of sea salt to elevate the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these bites with:
- A cup of hot coffee or tea for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
- A smoothie for a post-workout energy boost.
- Greek yogurt for a protein-packed breakfast or dessert.
FAQs
1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but keep in mind that milk chocolate contains added sugar. If you prefer a lower-sugar option, stick with dark chocolate that has at least 70% cocoa content.
2. What can I use instead of olive oil in the chocolate?
You can substitute coconut oil or butter for a slightly different texture and taste.
3. How do I make these bites crunchier?
Toast the oats and pumpkin seeds for a few minutes before adding them to the mixture.
4. Can I make these without a food processor?
Absolutely! Just finely chop the dates, cranberries, and nuts with a sharp knife and mix everything together by hand.
5. Are these bites keto-friendly?
Not quite, as they contain dates and oatmeal, which are higher in carbs. However, you can experiment with swapping the dates for a sugar-free syrup and replacing the oatmeal with almond flour.
Final Thoughts
These No-Sugar Delight Bites are proof that you don’t need refined sugar to enjoy a delicious, sweet treat. They’re nutritious, easy to make, and perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a quick snack, these bites will keep you satisfied without any guilt.
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