Sesame Pinch Snacks (also known as Sesame Seed Bites or Sesame Pinch Treats) are a simple, crunchy, and slightly sweet snack that’s easy to make, nutritious, and packed with flavor. They’re often made with sesame seeds and a few additional ingredients to form a compact snack that you can enjoy anytime.
Here’s a quick and easy recipe for Sesame Pinch Snacks:
Sesame Pinch Snack Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sesame seeds (toasted or untoasted)
- 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan version)
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (or almond butter for a different flavor)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/8 tsp sea salt (optional, enhances flavor)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (or butter, for richness)
- 2-3 tbsp water (if needed, to adjust consistency)
Instructions:
Step 1: Toast the Sesame Seeds (if not pre-toasted)
- In a dry pan, toast the sesame seeds over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure they toast evenly and don’t burn. Once they’re golden brown, remove them from the heat and set aside to cool.
- If you’re using pre-toasted sesame seeds, you can skip this step!
Step 2: Make the Sticky Base
- In a small saucepan, combine honey (or maple syrup), peanut butter (or almond butter), and coconut oil (or butter). Warm the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until the ingredients are fully melted and combined into a smooth, sticky mixture.
- Once melted, remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract (if using) and a pinch of sea salt (optional).
Step 3: Combine the Sesame Seeds
- In a large bowl, add the toasted sesame seeds. Pour the sticky mixture over the seeds and mix everything together until the sesame seeds are well-coated. If the mixture is too thick, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of water to adjust the consistency to a more moldable texture.
Step 4: Form the Pinch Snacks
- Use your hands to form small bite-sized balls (about 1-inch in diameter), or you can press the mixture into a parchment-lined baking dish to create a flat sheet. If making a flat sheet, you can cut them into squares once cooled.
- Place the sesame balls or flat sheet onto a parchment paper-lined tray or plate.
Step 5: Cool and Set
- Let the sesame pinch snacks cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you pressed the mixture into a sheet, cut it into squares or rectangles after it has firmed up.
Step 6: Serve
- Once the snacks are firm and set, you can enjoy them immediately. They’ll be crunchy on the outside with a slightly chewy interior.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature: Store the sesame pinch snacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Refrigeration: For longer shelf life, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They will stay fresh and firm.
- Freezing: You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap them well in parchment paper or plastic wrap before freezing.
Optional Variations:
- Add-ins: You can add dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots) or chocolate chips to the mixture before forming the bites for extra flavor.
- Sweeteners: Experiment with different sweeteners like agave syrup, date syrup, or coconut sugar.
- Nut Butter Options: Try using cashew butter or sunflower seed butter as a nut-free alternative to peanut butter.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the mix for a warm, aromatic flavor.
Sesame Pinch Snacks are an excellent on-the-go snack, perfect for satisfying your cravings between meals or as a quick energy booster. They’re easy to make, customizable, and full of good-for-you ingredients!
Let me know if you’d like variations or if you need any tips!