Date Ball Candy

Prep: 10 min Cook: 5 min

Date Ball Candy offers a rich combination of sweet dates, buttery flavor, and crunchy nuts, all rolled into bite-sized treats. With a hint of vanilla and a crispy rice exterior, these candies are perfect for snacking, parties, or gifting to loved ones who enjoy sweet, nutty flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 stick butter
  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • 1 package (8 oz.) dates
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 1/2 cups Rice Krispies
  • 1/2 cup nuts

Instructions

  1. Cook butter, light brown sugar, and dates over medium heat for 5 minutes.
  2. Add vanilla, Rice Krispies, and nuts to the mixture.
  3. Mix well and let cool slightly.
  4. Roll the mixture into balls.
  5. Roll the balls in powdered sugar and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of regular butter. You can also substitute the nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for a nut-free version. If the mixture is too sticky, dampen your hands slightly when rolling into balls. For a fun twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder to the mixture for extra depth.

Serving Suggestions

These date ball candies make for a delightful dessert or snack. Consider serving them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat. They pair beautifully with Yogurt And Fruit Salad for a balanced breakfast or brunch. You can also roll them in shredded coconut or crushed nuts for added texture and flavor before serving.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover date balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you'd like to keep them longer, refrigerate them, where they can last for up to two weeks. To enjoy them chilled, simply take them out of the fridge a few minutes before serving to allow them to soften slightly.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Date Ball Candy contains roughly 1352 calories, with 7g protein, 221g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (45% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 547mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).

1352 kcal 68% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.5g 13% DV
Total Fat 44.1g 57% DV
Carbs 221.4g 81% DV
Fiber 4g 14% DV
Sugar 122.5g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 546.8mg 24% DV
Potassium 517mg 11% DV
Cholesterol 90mg 30% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 405mcg 45% DV
Vitamin C 0.2mg
Calcium 77.4mg 6% DV
Iron 4.3mg 24% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk

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 dried fruit other than dates in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute dates with other dried fruits like figs or apricots. Just ensure that the fruit you choose is chopped finely and has a similar moisture content to dates for the best results. This will maintain the texture of the candy while adding a different flavor profile.

What is the best way to roll the balls without getting too sticky?

To minimize stickiness, lightly grease your hands with a bit of butter or oil before rolling the mixture into balls. Alternatively, you can dampen your hands with water. This will help the mixture slide easily and prevent it from sticking to your fingers.

Can I make these date balls ahead of time?

Absolutely! These date balls can be made in advance and stored. They actually taste better after a day or two as the flavors meld together. Simply prepare them and store in an airtight container, then enjoy them whenever you like!

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).

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