Date Fingers
Date Fingers are sweet, chewy treats featuring chopped dates bound with sugar and margarine, coated in coconut and rolled into finger shapes. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, they appeal to those who enjoy fruity, nutty flavors with a hint of coconut. Great for gatherings or homemade gifts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, margarine, beaten egg, and chopped dates in a boiler. Cook over low heat, stirring often, until thick.
- Cool the mixture, then pour over Rice Krispies and chopped nuts in a large bowl.
- Stir to mix well until evenly combined.
- Take small amounts of the mixture and roll between hands to form finger shapes.
- Roll the fingers in Angel Flake coconut to coat.
- Yields approximately 1 dozen.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute. For those who prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or replace them with additional Rice Krispies. Adjust the sweetness by using less sugar if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Date Fingers make a delightful snack or dessert and pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. They can also be served as a sweet treat at gatherings or as a homemade gift during the holidays. For a festive touch, consider presenting them on a platter alongside other treats like Honey Bites or Linzertorte.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Date Fingers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer them chilled, refrigerate them for a firmer texture. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them, layered between parchment paper, for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date Fingers contains roughly 418 calories, with 5g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of potassium (12% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% 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 fresh dates instead of chopped dates?
Yes, you can use fresh dates, but make sure to pit and chop them finely. Fresh dates may add a slightly different texture, but they will still deliver that sweet flavor. Just be mindful that they may require a little more cooking time to thicken properly.
How can I make these Date Fingers vegan?
To make vegan Date Fingers, substitute the margarine with a plant-based butter and replace the egg with a flax or chia egg. Simply mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with three tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes gel-like, and then add it to the mixture.
Can I add other ingredients to the mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding ingredients like chocolate chips, dried fruits, or spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg. Just be sure not to overload the mixture, as it may affect the binding and rolling process.
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).