Christmas Jewels
Christmas Jewels are festive, colorful confections featuring sweet peanut butter and honey, coated in vibrant red and green coconut. These bite-sized treats are perfect for holiday gatherings, offering a chewy, nutty flavor with a cheerful appearance that delights both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients, except coconut and food coloring, until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into about 3 dozen small ovals.
- In two separate pint jars, add a few drops each of red and green food coloring.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of shredded coconut to each jar and cover.
- Shake the jars until the coconut is tinted with color.
- Roll the ovals in the tinted coconut to coat thoroughly.
- Chill the coated confections before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free option, consider substituting sunflower seed butter for the peanut butter. If you want a sweeter treat, you can add a tablespoon of maple syrup. Ensure that the dates are pitted and finely chopped for even mixing. If you prefer a different texture, try adding chopped nuts or seeds to the mixture. This recipe is also adaptable for vegetarian recipes, making it a versatile snack.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet snack. Serve them alongside a cup of hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy touch. They also pair beautifully with a slice of Boursin cheese on crackers for a delightful contrast of flavors. Consider arranging them on a festive platter for an impressive dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Christmas Jewels in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. They can last up to two weeks when properly stored. If you'd like to freeze them, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Jewels contains roughly 66 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 nut butter?
Yes, you can substitute almond butter or cashew butter for the peanut butter if you have a nut allergy or preference. Each nut butter will impart a unique flavor to the Christmas Jewels, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite combination.
How can I make these treats vegan?
To make Christmas Jewels vegan, simply replace the honey with agave syrup or maple syrup. This will maintain the sweetness while ensuring the recipe is entirely plant-based. Additionally, check your peanut butter to confirm that it does not contain any animal products.
What can I do if the mixture is too dry?
If the mixture feels too dry and crumbly, add a small amount of warm water or additional honey, one teaspoon at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency. This will help the ingredients bind together better, making it easier to shape into ovals.
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).