Hanukkah Fruit Balls
Festive Hanukkah treats with sweet dates, chopped nuts, candied cherries, and shredded coconut, shaped into delicious fruit balls perfect for celebrations and sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl.
- Wet hands and shape the mixture into balls.
- Place the balls on a cookie sheet, 1 inch apart.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a delightful variation, consider substituting walnuts for the chopped nuts or using almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option. If dates are too sweet for your taste, you can mix in some unsweetened dried fruit. Ensure your hands are wet enough to prevent sticking while shaping the mixture into balls. To enhance flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
These Hanukkah Fruit Balls are perfect as a festive dessert or sweet snack. They pair beautifully with Cafe Con Leche for a delightful afternoon treat. Consider serving them alongside other holiday sweets like Christmas Stollen for a varied dessert platter. Garnish with additional shredded coconut or chopped nuts for an attractive presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Hanukkah Fruit Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them for longer shelf life. When ready to enjoy, you can eat them cold or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hanukkah Fruit Balls contains roughly 1550 calories, with 25g protein, 193g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), protein (50% of the Daily Value), and potassium (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 14g 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 Hanukkah Fruit Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these fruit balls in advance! They store well for several days, allowing the flavors to meld. Prepare them up to a week ahead and store in an airtight container. Just be sure to keep them at room temperature or refrigerated, depending on your preference.
What can I substitute for condensed milk?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider using coconut cream or a homemade vegan condensed milk made from coconut milk and sweetener. This will maintain the creamy texture while offering a different flavor profile that complements the fruit and nuts nicely.
Can I freeze the fruit balls?
Absolutely! Hanukkah Fruit Balls freeze well. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
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).