Date Nut Balls (Humdingers)
Sweet, nutty date balls packed with chopped dates, pecans, and crispy rice, coated in powdered sugar. Perfect as a festive treat or quick snack, loved by families during holidays.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine margarine, brown sugar, and chopped dates in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and stir until sugar is dissolved.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 6 minutes.
- Add Rice Krispies and chopped pecans to the mixture and stir well.
- Roll the mixture into small balls about the size of a walnut.
- Roll the balls in confectioners' sugar to coat.
- Freeze if desired; these are a festive treat suitable for holiday gatherings.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter works well as a substitute. For a nut-free version, you can replace pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. Ensure the dates are finely chopped for easier mixing, and try using gluten-free Rice Krispies if needed.
Serving Suggestions
These date nut balls are perfect as a sweet treat for holiday gatherings or as a snack any time of the year. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For an extra touch, serve them alongside a refreshing Cabbage And Carrot Slaw to balance the sweetness. They also make great additions to gift boxes during festive seasons.
Storage & Reheating
Store the date nut balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you prefer, you can freeze them for longer storage; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. To enjoy them later, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date Nut Balls (Humdingers) contains roughly 1529 calories, with 9g protein, 187g carbohydrates, and 92g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (55% of the Daily Value) and potassium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 15g 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 instead of pecans?
Yes, you can easily substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or any other nut of your choice. Just make sure the nuts are chopped for even distribution in the mixture. Each type of nut will bring its unique flavor and texture to the date nut balls.
How can I make these date nut balls vegan?
To make the date nut balls vegan, simply replace the margarine with a plant-based butter alternative. Additionally, ensure that the Rice Krispies you use are vegan-friendly, as some brands may contain non-vegan ingredients. The recipe will still taste delicious and maintain its texture without any animal products.
What can I do if the mixture is too sticky to roll into balls?
If the mixture is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm it up. This will make it easier to handle. Alternatively, you can lightly grease your hands with a bit of oil or use damp hands to roll the balls without sticking.
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).