Estelle'S Fruit Balls
Sweet and chewy fruit balls packed with chopped nuts, cherries, raisins, and coconut, perfect for snacking, parties, or holiday treats, appealing to those who enjoy fruity confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except powdered sugar and form into balls.
- If the balls don't hold together, mix in a little powdered sugar.
- Roll the balls in powdered sugar.
- Refrigerate the fruit balls.
- These improve with age.
Tips & Substitutions
When mixing the ingredients, ensure the butter is softened for easier incorporation. If you're looking for alternatives, you can substitute the nuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version or use dried cranberries instead of raisins for a different flavor profile. Adjust the amount of powdered sugar based on desired sweetness, as it also helps bind the mixture. These fruit balls are similar to those in Dairy recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fruit balls as a delightful snack or dessert at parties, and they pair beautifully with Frittata Hors D'Oeuvres for a balanced spread. For an added touch, consider drizzling them with melted chocolate or serving alongside a fruit platter. They make a perfect sweet treat alongside savory options like Salami Stacks.
Storage & Reheating
Store the fruit balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. They can last up to two weeks, and the flavors will deepen over time. If you prefer them slightly firmer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Estelle'S Fruit Balls contains roughly 909 calories, with 5g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value), potassium (12% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g 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 make these fruit balls in advance?
Yes, these fruit balls are perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, they improve with age as the flavors meld. Just prepare them a day or two in advance and refrigerate them until you're ready to serve. This makes them an excellent choice for gatherings or special occasions.
What can I use instead of candied cherries?
If you don't have candied cherries, you can use chopped dried apricots or even fresh cherries during the season for a different taste. Just ensure that any substitutions are chopped into small pieces so they blend well with the other ingredients.
How should I serve these at a party?
For party serving, arrange the fruit balls on a decorative platter and dust them with additional powdered sugar for an appealing look. Consider serving with toothpicks for easy grabbing, and pair them with a selection of drinks or other appetizers like German Sausage Casserole for a delightful contrast.
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).