Date Candy Roll
Sweet, nutty date candy roll combines caramelized sugar, chopped dates, and pecans, offering a rich, chewy treat perfect for dessert lovers and those craving homemade confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sugar and milk until a soft ball forms in cold water. Remove and cool without stirring.
- Beat in chopped dates; add chopped pecans and beat until almost hard.
- Shape into a roll in a damp cloth and refrigerate.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the sugar is fully dissolved before adding the milk. If you can't find Pet milk, whole milk or evaporated milk can be used as a substitute. To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or a splash of vanilla extract. Chopped walnuts can replace pecans for a different nutty flavor. Make sure to keep your hands damp when shaping the roll to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the Date Candy Roll into rounds and serve as a sweet treat with coffee or tea. It pairs beautifully with Honey Cinnamon Apples for a delightful dessert platter. Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent experience. This treat also makes a lovely addition to holiday dessert tables or gift baskets.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Date Candy Roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Avoid reheating as it can change the texture; enjoy it chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date Candy Roll contains roughly 809 calories, with 10g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (64% of the Daily Value), potassium (25% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 18g 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 other types of nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds. Just make sure to chop them finely so they mix well with the dates. Each type of nut will give a different flavor and texture to the candy roll, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.
What can I do if the mixture doesn't reach the soft ball stage?
If the mixture doesn't reach the soft ball stage, continue cooking it a few minutes longer, checking frequently. Make sure your thermometer is accurate, or use the cold water test to check the consistency. If it's too hard after cooling, you can add a bit of warm milk and stir to soften it.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Date Candy Roll is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no animal-derived ingredients. However, always check your specific ingredients, like the sugar, to ensure they align with vegetarian standards. It’s a great addition to any vegetarian dessert spread!
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).