Date Delights
Sweet and crunchy date delights with pecans and a creamy caramel flavor, perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer, appealing to those who love rich, nutty treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the Eagle Brand milk, chopped dates, and butter until thick.
- Add chopped pecans to the mixture.
- Spread the mixture onto Ritz crackers.
- Bake for 6 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using salted butter instead of unsalted. If you're out of chopped dates, you can substitute with dried figs or raisins, but adjust the sweetness accordingly. To make them less sweet, consider reducing the amount of Eagle Brand milk slightly. These Date Delights pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them a great addition to your afternoon snack or dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
These Date Delights make a fantastic appetizer for gatherings or holiday parties. Serve them alongside a cheese platter or with fresh fruit to balance the sweetness. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert treat. Consider serving them at your next brunch or holiday celebration.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Date Delights in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to regain their freshness, ensuring the Ritz crackers remain crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date Delights contains roughly 967 calories, with 17g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (51% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 650mg per serving (28% 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 make Date Delights ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the date mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply spread it on the Ritz crackers and bake as directed. This makes them a convenient option for busy days or when entertaining guests.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you don't have pecans on hand or prefer a different flavor, walnuts or almonds can be excellent substitutes. Both will add a nice crunch and complement the sweetness of the dates. Just chop them roughly and mix them into the date mixture as you would with pecans.
Can I use low-fat Eagle Brand milk?
While low-fat Eagle Brand milk can be used, it may affect the thickness and richness of the final mixture. If you opt for lower fat, consider adding a bit more butter to maintain the texture. The traditional version offers a creamier result that enhances the overall flavor of the Date Delights.
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).