A healthy twist on the classic fig newton cookies, your entire family will love these no-bake fig newton bites that are naturally gluten-free, vegan and paleo-friendly. The perfect on the go snack for an energy boost!
We were never a big dessert family growing up. Perhaps this explains my lack of sweet tooth as an adult! We usually had dried apricots, dates, fresh apples or raisins as “dessert”. We were more likely to end the evening with Sleepy Time Tea than a piece of pie.
One item that would appear in the pantry from time to time was fig newtons. (PS: Did you know they aren’t called fig newtons anymore? They are now called Newtons – fig flavor. Who knew?)
As much as I adore those little cookies and my childhood memories, when I see the 25 ingredients (!!!) listed on the back of the package, I remember there are certain aspects of my childhood that I don’t wish to repeat.
The good news is that my no-bake version doesn’t require you to turn on the oven and is jam-packed with sweet fig flavor. My sugar-loving husband and kids made a beeline to these beauties and couldn’t stop eating them which is always a good sign.
As an added bonus, each bite is full of heart-healthy omega 3 fats from the walnuts and flax seed. Plus they each have a good dose of protein to keep blood sugars stabilized. Figs are also an excellent source of fiber, potassium and B vitamins.
What is your favorite childhood cookie? I’d love to hear from you!
Frequently asked questions:
Is there a nut free option to these?
Unfortunately I don’t. The oils in the walnuts help bind the balls similar to peanut butter in other energy ball recipes. If you have a suggestion I’m all ears :)
How long can these last for?
These fig newtons can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
No forks required.
Homemade No Bake Fig Newtons Energy Bites
Ingredients
- 3 cups dried figs (hard stems removed)
- 1 cup walnuts halves
- ¼ cup flax seed meal
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a large food processor and pulse until finely chopped, almost the consistency of sand. This may take 4-5 minutes. Remove blade and put aside.
- Scoop mixture out one at a time using a small ice cream scoop. Form mixture into balls by rolling in between your hands.
- Enjoy room temperature or refrigerate in an air-tight container for up to 7 days.
Notes
Nutrition
Want more delicious, healthy dessert recipes? Check out my Pinterest board!
These look Delicious! I have some figs that are too hard. I soaked some of them and made yummy oil-free fig newtons. I am wondering if I soak my figs first to soften them if these fig balls might be too wet?
For a Nut-Free option, consider trying hemp seed or pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead of the walnuts. What do you think?
Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds sound like great and delicious alternatives!
Hi there,
Could I add cacao powder to make it chocolatey? If so how much?
Yes, you definitely can. I would add about a tablespoon of cocoa powder. Anymore, and the mixture will probably be too dry.