I used to make raw truffles and bars all the time using dehydrated dates, but it wasn’t until recently that I realized they would also be a great snack base for a 14-month old.  Using nothing but a food processor and all-natural ingredients, we had tiny, bite-sized, Audrey-approved treats ready in minutes.  Handy, portable, and super-healthy, you’ll be set for the week.  That’s of course if you don’t eat them all yourself first…

*Feel free to play around with the ingredients – dried cranberries or apricots instead of raisins, agave nectar instead of maple syrup or almond butter instead of sun-butter….

Coconut-Date Snack Bites

12 months + up 

Makes approx. 20 bites 

• 1 cup (about 24) pitted dates (I used deglet, medjool work as well)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, plus more for rolling
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1 tablespoon flax meal
• 1 tablespoon sunflower seed butter
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Place all ingredients in a large food processor; process until a uniform and sticky batter is formed.  Scoop the dough using a tablespoon, then roll between your hands to form a ball.  Have extra coconut ready on a plate and roll each bite in it to coat.  Store bites in a sealed container in the fridge for up to one week, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

These are gluten-free, vegan and nut-free.