"Date Ball" Cookies
Date Ball Cookies are sweet, chewy treats with a rich blend of dates, sugar, and vanilla, coated in coconut. They are quick to make and perfect for snacking or gifting, appealing to those who enjoy nostalgic, bite-sized desserts with nutty and fruity flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix chopped dates, sugar, oleo, and beaten egg together and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until it boils hard.
- Cool slightly; add vanilla and Rice Krispies or chopped nuts, mixing well.
- Cool the mixture enough to handle, then form into 1 teaspoon-sized balls.
- Roll each ball in coconut to coat.
- Serve immediately or freeze for later.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you want to make these cookies a bit healthier, you can substitute half of the Rice Krispies with rolled oats. To enhance the texture, try adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. Ensure to stir constantly while cooking to prevent burning, especially as it approaches boiling.
Serving Suggestions
These Date Ball cookies make a delightful snack on their own but can also be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon break. They pair beautifully with Nan'S Hershey Chocolate Cake for a sweet dessert platter. For a festive touch, serve them at gatherings or holiday parties as a unique addition to your dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Date Ball cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds for a soft treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Date Ball" Cookies contains roughly 152 calories, with 2g protein, 33g 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 other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. Just make sure to chop them finely to blend well with the mixture.
What can I substitute for oleo?
If you don't have oleo, you can use unsalted butter or coconut oil as a substitute. Both will give the cookies a rich flavor while maintaining the right consistency for the mixture.
How do I know when the mixture is cooked enough?
The mixture is ready when it reaches a hard boil and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan. Keep stirring to avoid burning, and once it thickens slightly, remove it from the heat and let it cool before shaping.
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).