Date Nut Roll Candy
A rich, sweet candy roll combining dates and nuts with a creamy, caramel-like flavor, perfect for those who enjoy chewy, nutty confections with a hint of vanilla.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook milk and sugar to soft ball stage.
- Remove from heat.
- Add butter and chopped dates.
- Beat until dates dissolve or mixture is moderately firm.
- Add nuts and vanilla; beat until it begins to stiffen.
- Pour onto a wet cloth and roll into a stick.
- Let cool, then slice and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect soft ball stage, use a candy thermometer; this ensures your candy sets correctly. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, substitute walnuts or pecans for the nuts in the recipe. For a slight twist, consider adding a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness of the dates. Make sure to beat the mixture thoroughly to ensure the dates dissolve completely.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the Date Nut Roll Candy into bite-sized pieces for easy serving at parties or as a sweet snack. It pairs beautifully with cheese platters, particularly alongside a creamy Brie or sharp cheddar. Consider serving it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat, similar to enjoying a slice of Strawberry-Filled Cake Roll for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Date Nut Roll Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, refrigerating the candy can help maintain its texture. To enjoy it later, simply slice and serve straight from the fridge, or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date Nut Roll Candy contains roughly 735 calories, with 11g protein, 128g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 9g 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 dried fruit other than dates?
Yes, you can substitute dried figs or apricots for the dates if you prefer. Just ensure they are finely chopped to blend well into the mixture. The flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious. Experimenting with different fruits can yield unique and delightful variations.
How do I know when the candy is at the soft ball stage?
The soft ball stage occurs at 234°F to 240°F (112°C to 115°C). A candy thermometer is the best way to measure this accurately. Alternatively, you can drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water; if it forms a soft ball that flattens when removed, it’s ready for the next step.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version of Date Nut Roll Candy, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter. Use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk in place of regular milk. The rest of the recipe can remain the same, ensuring a delicious treat for everyone.
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).