Ding Bats
Ding Bats are sweet, bite-sized treats combining crispy rice, chopped dates, pecans, and coconut. Their rich, nutty flavor makes them perfect for snacking or entertaining. Easy to prepare and ideal for making ahead, these confections offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix margarine and sugar until well combined.
- Add the well beaten egg and chopped dates to the mixture.
- Cook over low heat until the mixture is dissolved.
- Add chopped pecans and cook for 8 minutes longer, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Add Rice Krispies and mix well.
- Form the mixture into small balls and roll in flaked coconut.
- Optional: Make in advance and store in refrigerator or freezer.
Tips & Substitutions
For an enhanced flavor, consider using unsweetened shredded coconut instead of flaked coconut. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can substitute the margarine with coconut oil or use a plant-based butter. Additionally, if you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds work well too. Ensure the mixture is cooled slightly before forming balls to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Ding Bats make a delightful treat for parties or as a sweet snack. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For an extra indulgence, serve with a drizzle of Special Hot Fudge Sauce on the side. They also make a great addition to dessert trays alongside cookies or brownies, offering a nice variety for guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Ding Bats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy them, simply let them sit at room temperature to soften before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ding Bats contains roughly 1324 calories, with 13g protein, 269g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (98% of the Daily Value), potassium (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. It also contributes 27g 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 different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans add a lovely flavor, you can use walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of your favorite nuts. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even distribution throughout the mixture.
What can I substitute for Rice Krispies?
If you don't have Rice Krispies, you can use other crispy rice cereals or even cornflakes as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but the overall sweetness and crunch will still be delicious.
How can I make these Ding Bats vegan?
To make vegan Ding Bats, replace the margarine with a vegan butter substitute and use a flax egg or applesauce in place of the beaten egg. This way, you can still enjoy the treat while adhering to a plant-based diet.
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).