Tahini almond date bites are a simple, flavorful snack made from whole-food ingredients and a touch of natural sweetness. Chewy and mildly sweet with a nutty finish, these little bites are quick to prepare and perfect for snacking or a light pre-workout nibble.
Recipe originally published January 27, 2012
TABLE OF CONTENTS – Jump to any section:
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- Why this recipe works
- Tips for making snack balls
- Recipe variations
- How long do homemade snack balls last?
- Jump to recipe: Tahini Almond Date Bites
Why everyone loves these tahini date bites
These tahini almond date bites strike a balance between natural sweetness and savory nuttiness. Tahini brings a rich, slightly savory sesame flavor that complements the caramel-like sweetness of dates. Medjool dates work exceptionally well because of their soft texture and natural caramel notes, but any pitted dates will do—the recipe accounts for typical date sizes.
They’re a handy snack before a workout if you want a bit of fuel without a heavy meal, and a few bites paired with a smoothie make a simple breakfast. Their portability and short ingredient list make them ideal for busy days and healthy snacking.
Tips for making snack balls
- Soak sticky dried fruit such as dates in hot water for about 10 minutes to soften them; this makes them easier to process and helps the mixture bind.
- Wet your hands slightly before rolling to prevent the mixture from sticking while forming balls.
- If the mixture is crumbly and won’t hold together, add tahini by the teaspoon until it binds.
- If the mixture is too sticky to handle, add extra almonds, a tablespoon at a time, until it firms up.
Variations on this recipe / Ingredient substitutions
If tahini isn’t available or you prefer a different taste, swap it for any nut butter such as almond or cashew butter. For a brighter, tangier alternative to dates, use dried apricots for a different flavor profile and texture.
How long does this recipe last?
For best flavor and texture, enjoy these tahini date bites within one week. Store them in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed glass or airtight container to keep them fresh and firm.
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Tahini Almond Date Bites
This easy, uniquely flavored snack with a short ingredient list and natural sweetener will likely become a favorite.
5 minutes
30 minutes
5 minutes
Ingredients
- 6 Medjool dates (½ cup)
- 1 cup raw almonds
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- pinch sea salt
- 3 tablespoons sesame seeds to coat
- water by the tablespoon if needed
Instructions
- Remove pits from dates. Soak dates in hot water for 10 minutes to soften, then drain.
- Add sesame seeds to a shallow bowl or plate and set aside for rolling.
- Add almonds to the bowl of a food processor and pulse until crumbly.
- Add softened dates, tahini, and salt to the food processor. Blend until combined with the almond crumbs.
- Test the dough by squeezing a small amount between your fingers; it should hold together. If it’s crumbly, add water 1 tablespoon at a time or a little extra tahini until it forms a cohesive dough.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls using slightly wet hands to prevent sticking.
- Roll each ball in sesame seeds to coat, pressing gently so the seeds adhere.
- Transfer bites to an airtight container and refrigerate until firm.
Notes
Tips for making snack balls
- Soaking dates softens them and improves blending.
- Wet hands help with rolling and keep the mixture from sticking.
- Add tahini to fix a dry mixture or extra almonds to reduce stickiness.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap tahini for any nut butter if desired. Use dried apricots for a tangier flavor.
Storage
Keep refrigerated in an airtight container and enjoy within one week for best flavor and texture.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size:
1 piece
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 30
Total Fat: 2g
Sodium: 93mg
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 5g
Nutrition estimates are approximate and for informational purposes only.
About Kristina:
Kristina is spabettie. She discovered cooking early and launched spabettie in 2010 to share vegan recipes. Her culinary background helps her create vibrant, plant-based dishes.
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