Date With Dates(No Extra Sugar In This Recipe!)
A wholesome, no-sugar fruit and nut treat blending dates, apricots, raisins, and nuts. Perfect as a healthy snack or energy bite for all ages and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the apricots well in warm water, then chop.
- Put the chopped apricots, dates, and water into a saucepan.
- Heat gently for 15 minutes or until the apricots and dates are soft; remove any pits.
- Place the softened mixture in a blender or food processor along with the raisins and nuts and whiz to a puree.
- Press the mixture into a lightly greased cake pan, making it about 1/2-inch deep.
- Chill the pan, then cut into 24 squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, soak the dried apricots in warm water for 10 minutes before chopping. You can substitute the mixed nuts with any nuts you prefer, such as almonds or walnuts, based on your taste. For a more indulgent flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the puree mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These date squares make a perfect healthy snack or a natural energy boost before workouts. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or can be served alongside a fresh fruit salad. For a delightful dessert, try serving them with a dollop of yogurt or a scoop of vegan ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the squares in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw them at room temperature before serving, and enjoy them cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date With Dates(No Extra Sugar In This Recipe!) contains roughly 77 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 dried dates?
Fresh dates have a higher moisture content and may not provide the same texture as dried dates. If using fresh dates, reduce the amount of water in the recipe to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet.
How can I make this recipe nut-free?
To make this recipe nut-free, simply omit the mixed nuts and replace them with additional dried fruit like more raisins or sunflower seeds for added texture and flavor without the nuts.
Can I add other fruits to the mixture?
Yes, you can add other dried fruits such as figs or cranberries for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that they are unsweetened to keep the recipe free of extra sugar.
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).