Date Dainties
Sweet and nutty date dainties feature chopped dates, pecans, coconut, and crispy rice treats, making a delightful treat perfect for parties, snacks, or sharing with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine dates, margarine, sugar, and egg in a saucepan.
- Cook for eight minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in chopped pecans and Rice Krispies cereal.
- Shape mixture as desired.
- Roll shaped treats in coconut.
- Let stand until cool.
- Store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine, or try substituting half of the pecans with walnuts or almonds. If you prefer a different texture, add a pinch of salt or a dash of vanilla extract to enhance the sweetness of the dates. For an exciting twist, incorporate dried cranberries or apricots for added color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Date Dainties make delightful snacks or energy bites, perfect for lunchboxes or as a post-workout treat. They pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them great for afternoon gatherings. For a complete dessert spread, serve alongside Polvoron or other sweet treats for a variety of flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Date Dainties in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer them chilled, refrigerate them for a firmer texture. To reheat, simply place them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date Dainties contains roughly 1556 calories, with 14g protein, 139g carbohydrates, and 111g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 832mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
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?
Absolutely! While pecans add a nice crunch, you can easily substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the nuts are chopped to a similar size for even distribution in the mixture.
How can I make these vegan?
To make Date Dainties vegan, replace the egg with a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or apple sauce. Additionally, use a plant-based margarine or coconut oil instead of regular margarine to keep the recipe entirely plant-based.
Can I freeze Date Dainties for later?
Yes, you can freeze Date Dainties for up to three months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a quick treat.
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).