Dried Fruit Balls
Chewy, sweet dried fruit balls packed with nuts and orange flavor, perfect as a healthy snack or energy booster for any time of day.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, grind the dried apricots, raisins, prunes, and dates until well combined.
- Add the coconut, chopped nuts, grated orange peel, and orange juice; mix until evenly incorporated.
- Form the mixture into small balls and roll each ball in the finely chopped nuts.
- Arrange on a tray and refrigerate if desired to set. Makes approximately 48 balls.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more textured bite, consider adding chia seeds or hemp seeds to the mixture. If you don't have all the dried fruits on hand, feel free to substitute with other options like figs or cranberries. You can also swap out nuts; almonds work well as a substitute for pecans or walnuts. Ensure the fruits are pitted and chopped into smaller pieces before blending for a smoother consistency.
Serving Suggestions
These dried fruit balls make a perfect snack or energy booster, especially after workouts. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for a quick afternoon pick-me-up. Consider serving them alongside a cheese platter for a sweet contrast, or include them in a lunchbox for a healthy treat. They also complement breakfast bowls or smoothies.
Storage & Reheating
Store the dried fruit balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a container or freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving for best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dried Fruit Balls contains roughly 48 calories, with 1g protein, 6g 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 different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the pecans or walnuts with any nuts you prefer, such as almonds or hazelnuts. Just make sure to chop them finely for easier rolling and a better texture in each bite.
What if I want to make these fruit balls vegan?
This recipe is already vegan, as it contains no animal products. You can enjoy these dried fruit balls as a healthy, plant-based snack without any modifications.
How can I make these fruit balls more flavorful?
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture. You can also experiment with adding a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract, which will enhance the overall taste of the fruit balls.
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).