If you’ve ever had those classic Turtle chocolates—you know, the ones with gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and rich chocolate—you know how dangerously good they are. Well, meet their healthier, plant-based cousin: Turtle Bites! These little treats are insanely easy to make, just as satisfying, and way better for you. Think of them as the perfect mash-up of indulgence and nutrition. They’re lower in calories, made with real ingredients, and absolutely devourable.
These Turtle Bites are so simple to throw together, you don’t even need to bake. Just blend, layer, chill, and enjoy. They’re great for meal prep, parties, or just keeping in the fridge when those chocolate cravings hit.
What Makes These Turtle Bites So Healthy?
We’re swapping out the processed sugar and heavy cream for whole, plant-based ingredients that taste like dessert but nourish like a snack.
⭐ Pecans:
Pecans bring the crunch and buttery flavor, but they’re also rich in heart-healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. They’re a great source of manganese and zinc, which support your metabolism and immune system.
⭐ Dates:
Nature’s candy! Dates are naturally sweet, full of fiber, and high in potassium and magnesium. They help create that sticky “caramel” texture without the need for refined sugar.
⭐ Almond Butter:
Creamy, nutty, and full of healthy fats and protein, almond butter brings everything together. It’s also a great source of vitamin E, which supports skin health and gives these bites a decadent texture.
⭐ Maple Syrup:
Just a little adds a rich sweetness that complements the chocolatey layer perfectly. It’s a more natural sweetener that pairs beautifully with dates and nuts.
⭐ Cocoa Powder:
Unsweetened cocoa powder is packed with antioxidants and gives that deep chocolate flavor without the extra sugar. It also contains a small amount of caffeine for a gentle energy boost.
⭐ Rice Krispies (Chocolate or Regular):
For a fun and crispy topping! Using chocolate rice krispies adds an extra cocoa punch, but regular works just as well. They add texture and a bit of nostalgic cereal crunch, making every bite fun and satisfying.
Easy to Make, Even Easier to Devour
These bites come together in just minutes—no oven required! You’ll blend the dates into a sticky caramel, mix in almond butter and maple syrup, layer with pecans, and top with a chocolatey coating and a sprinkle of crispy cereal. Chill until firm and you’re ready to snack!
They’re perfect for dessert, afternoon cravings, or a little something sweet after dinner. And unlike the store-bought kind, these Turtle Bites won’t leave you with a sugar crash—just pure, feel-good satisfaction.
Pro Tip: Store them in the fridge or freezer for the ultimate chewy texture and long-lasting freshness. They’re great for grab-and-go moments or sharing with friends (if you don’t eat them all yourself first!).
Whether you’re on a health journey or just looking for a cleaner treat that still hits the spot, these Plant-Based Turtle Bites are the ultimate guilt-free indulgence.
WFPB Turtle Energy Bites
Equipment
- 1 scoop
Ingredients
- 1 cup toasted pecans
- 1 cup dates
- ¼ cup almond butter or other nut butter
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 cup brown rice crispies, regular or chocolate
Instructions
- If you are using Medjool dates, pit them first. If you are using Deglet dates I would soak them for 20 minutes in warm water to soften them up. I prefer Deglet dates because I make so many bites and Medjool dates can get expensive.
- In your food processor, add the dates and blitz for a minute, add the remaining ingredients except for the rice crispies. Sometimes I even use Chocolate rice crispies which turns up the chocolate flavor. Process until it starts to come together. You can add 1 tbsp of water or the date liquid if it needs help coming together.
- Transfer mixture to a large bowl and add the rice crispies and stir until combined.
- Take a baking sheet and cover with parchment or silicone mat. Using the scoop roll in your hands to make a ball. Place on baking sheet and repeat.
- Put in the freezer and allow to freeze solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag and enjoy whenever you want!
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