Fruit Balls (Bullets)
Sweet and chewy fruit balls packed with dates, coconut, walnuts, and a hint of vanilla, perfect for a quick snack or healthy treat for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop nuts and dates; mix with coconut, brown sugar, flour, salt, baking powder, and vanilla.
- Mix well and add well-beaten eggs. Form into balls the size of walnuts and roll in coarse sugar.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 20 minutes.
- Note: The mixture will be sticky.
Tips & Substitutions
For a unique twist, try swapping half of the walnuts for pecans, or use almond flour instead of regular flour for a gluten-free option. Ensure your dates are medjool for the best sweetness and texture. If the mixture is too sticky, lightly wet your hands when forming the balls to prevent sticking. For an added flavor boost, consider incorporating a pinch of cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions
These fruit balls make a delightful snack on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a platter of cheese and crackers or as part of a dessert buffet with items like Sacher Bars. They can also be enjoyed as a sweet finish to a meal, particularly with light dishes like Creole Corn Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fruit balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To enjoy them warm, simply reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes until slightly warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Balls (Bullets) contains roughly 305 calories, with 4g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of iron (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 use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts with almonds, pecans, or even cashews based on your preference. Just keep in mind that different nuts may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the fruit balls.
What can I use instead of eggs for a vegan version?
For a vegan option, you can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens. This will work well to bind the ingredients together.
How do I know when the fruit balls are done baking?
The fruit balls are done when they are lightly golden on the outside and firm to the touch. If you're unsure, you can also insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, they're ready to be taken out of the oven.
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).