Fruit Candies
Sweet and chewy fruit candies combining raisins, apricots, dates, and prunes, flavored with orange rind and ginger, then dipped in coconut or chocolate for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind the raisins, apricots, dates, and prunes together.
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl and shape into balls.
- Roll the balls in coconut or dip them in melted chocolate chips mixed with 2 tablespoons of water.
- Set the candies on waxed paper to cool and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a different flavor profile, consider substituting dried figs or cranberries for the raisins or apricots. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can omit the nuts entirely or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the flavor, and for a zesty twist, include lemon zest along with the orange rind. Make sure to grind the dried fruits until they form a sticky paste to help the mixture hold together.
Serving Suggestions
These fruit candies make a delightful snack or a sweet treat for gatherings. They pair beautifully with Hot Peach Tea for a refreshing afternoon break. You can also serve them on a platter alongside nuts and fresh fruits for a wholesome snack board. For a festive touch, consider presenting them as a gift wrapped in colorful cellophane with a ribbon.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fruit candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them, where they can last for up to two weeks. Avoid direct sunlight and moisture, which can cause the candies to become sticky. If they harden, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Candies contains roughly 484 calories, with 9g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 656mg per serving (29% 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 fresh fruit instead of dried fruit for this recipe?
Fresh fruit contains a lot of moisture, making it challenging to form the candies. Dried fruits are recommended because they are sticky and will bind together better. If you want to use fresh fruit, you might need to dehydrate them first or use a fruit puree as an alternative.
How can I make these candies healthier?
To make these fruit candies healthier, you can reduce the amount of added sugars or eliminate them entirely, relying on the natural sweetness of the dried fruits. Additionally, consider using raw nuts instead of roasted ones to keep the nutrients intact, and opt for unsweetened coconut if rolling them.
Can I make these candies vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan since it contains no animal products. Ensure that the chocolate chips you use are dairy-free if opting for that coating. You can also explore some vegan chocolate options available in stores to enhance the candies while keeping them plant-based.
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).