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Apple Walnut Snack Bites (No Added Sugar) - Simple, Satisfying, and Naturally Sweet

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup walnuts (raw or lightly toasted)
  • 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned, not instant)
  • 1 cup chopped soft dates (Medjool preferred; pitted)
  • 1 medium apple, peeled if you like, cored, and finely chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened nut butter (almond or peanut)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional, but nice)
  • Pinch of fine sea salt (enhances flavor)
  • 2–3 tablespoons ground flaxseed or chia seeds (for binding and nutrition)
  • 2–3 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut (optional, for rolling)

Method
 

  1. Prep the dates. If your dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain well. This helps them blend smoothly and hold the bites together.
  2. Pulse the dry base. Add walnuts and oats to a food processor. Pulse until they form a fine, sandy texture—not a paste. You want a little texture left.
  3. Add the flavor builders. Add dates, chopped apple, nut butter, cinnamon, vanilla, salt, and flaxseed or chia. Pulse in short bursts, scraping down the bowl as needed, until the mixture sticks together when pressed. If it’s too dry, add 1–2 teaspoons of water; if it’s too wet, pulse in more oats.
  4. Chill briefly. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes. This makes rolling easier and helps the bites set.
  5. Roll into bites. Scoop about 1 tablespoon per bite and roll into balls with your hands. If using coconut, roll some or all of the bites in coconut to coat.
  6. Set and store. Place on a parchment-lined tray and chill for 30 minutes to firm up. Then move to an airtight container for storage.