Aileen'S Christmas Casserole
A sweet, nutty treat featuring dates, walnuts, coconut, and vanilla, shaped into balls and coated with powdered sugar, perfect for festive gatherings and holiday desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat eggs well in a mixing bowl.
- Gradually add sugar and continue beating until the mixture is fluffy.
- Stir in chopped walnuts, vanilla, almond extract, snipped dates, and flaked coconut until well combined.
- Turn the mixture into a 2-quart ungreased casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven and stir with a wooden spoon while still hot.
- Allow to cool completely.
- Once cooled, form the mixture into small balls.
- Roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider substituting pecans for walnuts or using fresh dates if available. If you're short on time, you can skip rolling the balls in powdered sugar, but it adds a nice touch. Make sure to beat the eggs until fluffy for the best texture. For those who enjoy coconut flavors, pairing this dish with My Best Recipe Salad Mold creates a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet, chewy balls are perfect as holiday treats or party snacks. Serve them alongside coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon break. They pair nicely with the rich flavors of Joe'S Pig Picking Cake for a festive dessert table. For a lighter option, consider offering a fresh fruit salad on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, warm the balls in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold as a sweet snack. They also make a great addition to holiday platters.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aileen'S Christmas Casserole contains roughly 1106 calories, with 16g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can use any nuts you prefer, such as pecans or almonds. Just ensure they are chopped finely to maintain the texture of the casserole. Each nut will bring its unique flavor, allowing for some variation in this festive treat.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn't contain any flour. Just double-check that your sugar and any other ingredients are certified gluten-free to ensure safety for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole mixture a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve. After baking, let it cool completely, form the balls, and roll them in powdered sugar right before serving for the best presentation.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).