Date Walnut Balls
Date Walnut Balls are sweet, nutty treats with a rich, chewy texture and a hint of citrus zest. Perfect for snacking or gifting, they combine chopped dates and nuts with lemon flavor for a delightful, wholesome bite suitable for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a heavy skillet.
- Stir in sugar, egg yolk, and chopped dates.
- Cook and stir over low heat for 5 minutes or until mixture is thick.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in lemon juice, grated lemon rind, and chopped nuts. Cool.
- Drop or roll into balls and roll in powdered sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you want to reduce sugar, substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also customize the nuts; walnuts or pecans work well, and you can even add a dash of cinnamon for extra warmth. When chopping dates, make sure they are pitted and moist for easier mixing.
Serving Suggestions
These Date Walnut Balls make a delightful snack or dessert. Serve them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with Creamy Fresh Fruit Dip for a refreshing contrast. For a festive touch, consider presenting them on a platter with other sweet treats, such as Grandma Wheeler'S Banana Cake or One Bowl Pecan Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Date Walnut Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you prefer them chilled, refrigerate them to enhance the flavors. To reheat, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving, as they are best enjoyed at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date Walnut Balls contains roughly 196 calories, with 5g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of 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 make these Date Walnut Balls vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan by using a plant-based margarine and substituting the egg yolk with a flaxseed meal mix (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water). Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before adding it to the mixture.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
If you don't have walnuts on hand or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute them with pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Each will bring a unique texture and taste to the Date Walnut Balls.
How do I know when the mixture is thick enough?
The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when dropped from a spoon. It will also start to pull away from the sides of the skillet as you stir. Keep an eye on it while cooking to avoid overcooking.
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).