Christmas Date Roll
A sweet, chewy Christmas treat made with ground dates, nuts, and vanilla that’s perfect for sharing during festive celebrations. Moist, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook milk and sugar together until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage.
- Add ground dates and stir until well mixed.
- Continue cooking until the mixture reaches the hard ball stage. Remove from heat.
- Add chopped nuts and vanilla, then cool until it can be kneaded.
- Shape the mixture into a long roll in a cloth wrung out of cold water.
- Roll in sugar, then wrap in wax paper.
- The candy will keep indefinitely and remains moist and delicious.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute chopped nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Ensure the milk is at room temperature to help the sugar dissolve faster. If the mixture seems too sticky, lightly dust your hands with sugar while shaping the rolls to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the Christmas Date Roll into bite-sized pieces for a festive treat. It pairs beautifully with French Buttercream Cookies for a delightful dessert platter. Serve it alongside a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee at holiday gatherings. For a fun twist, try incorporating it into a charcuterie board as a sweet contrast to savory items.
Storage & Reheating
Wrap the Christmas Date Roll tightly in wax paper and store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. This candy can last for months without losing its delightful flavor. If you prefer it chilled, refrigerate the container, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Date Roll contains roughly 1112 calories, with 6g protein, 206g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of potassium (19% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (17% of the Daily Value), and protein (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g 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 types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute chopped walnuts, pecans, or even almonds based on your preference. Each nut will impart a unique flavor and texture to the Christmas Date Roll, allowing you to customize it to your liking.
What is the soft ball stage and hard ball stage in candy making?
The soft ball stage occurs at around 234-240°F (112-115°C), where a small amount of syrup forms a soft ball when dropped into cold water. The hard ball stage, at around 250-266°F (121-130°C), results in a firmer ball that maintains its shape. Using a candy thermometer is helpful for accuracy.
Can I make this recipe in advance for the holidays?
Yes, the Christmas Date Roll is perfect for making ahead! Prepare it a week or two in advance and store it properly. This allows the flavors to meld together over time, enhancing the overall taste. Just remember to keep it cool and wrapped to maintain its freshness.
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).