Pina Colada Energy Bites Recipe
These Pina Colada Energy Bites are a delicious, tropical-inspired snack made with toasted nuts, dried pineapple, and shredded coconut. Packed with natural sweetness from dates and bursting with flavors of coconut and pineapple, they offer a healthy and energizing treat perfect for on-the-go snacking or a quick pick-me-up.
- Author: Hannah
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 energy bites 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tropical
- Diet: Gluten Free
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup toasted whole cashews
- 1 cup toasted macadamia nuts
- 2/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, divided
- 1 cup large medjool dates, pitted
- 1 cup dried pineapple, diced
Flavoring
- Toast the nuts and coconut: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Spread the whole cashews, macadamia nuts, and shredded coconut separately on a large baking sheet. Bake for 5 minutes, then remove and gently stir each ingredient individually. Return to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes until the coconut turns a golden brown.
- Prepare the nut mixture: Set aside the toasted coconut. Transfer the toasted cashews and macadamia nuts to a food processor and blend on high for about 1 minute, or until a coarse meal forms.
- Add remaining ingredients: Remove the lid of the food processor and add the pitted dates, diced dried pineapple, 1/3 cup of the toasted coconut, and coconut extract. Blend again for about 30 seconds until all ingredients are fully combined into a thick, sticky, and slightly wet mixture.
- Chill the mixture: Place the mixture in the refrigerator for approximately 30 minutes to allow it to firm up, making it easier to handle.
- Form the energy bites: Using a slightly rounded tablespoon, scoop the mixture and roll it between your palms to create bite-sized balls. Then roll each ball in the remaining 1/3 cup of toasted coconut until fully coated.
- Store: Place the finished energy bites in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
Notes
- Make sure to toast the coconut carefully to avoid burning as it browns quickly once golden.
- The medjool dates act as a natural sweetener and binder, so ensure they are soft and fresh for best results.
- If you don’t have coconut extract, you can substitute with vanilla extract, but it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
- These energy bites can be customized by adding a pinch of sea salt or a sprinkle of chia seeds for extra nutrition.
- Keep the bites refrigerated for best texture and freshness, especially if you live in a warmer climate.
Keywords: Pina Colada Energy Bites, healthy snack, tropical snack, nut bites, gluten free energy bites, no-bake snacks, coconut snacks