Hedge Hogs
Hedge Hogs are delightful no-bake treats with a crunchy nutty exterior and a sweet coconut coating. Perfect for parties or quick snacks, these bite-sized confections combine chopped dates and pecans with rice Krispies, finished with a sugary coconut layer, making them a crowd-pleasing, nostalgic dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook margarine, sugar, chopped dates, pecans, egg, and vanilla together for 5 minutes.
- Stir in Rice Krispies into the mixture.
- Roll the mixture into small balls.
- Mix coconut with confectioners sugar and roll the balls in this mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, substitute walnuts for pecans or use almond butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor. Ensure the dates are finely chopped to blend well with the other ingredients. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using unsweetened shredded coconut and reducing the sugar by half. Keep the mixture slightly warm to make rolling easier.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hedge Hogs as a delightful snack or dessert at gatherings. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider arranging them on a platter alongside other treats like Lemon Cookies or Holiday Pecan Logs during the holidays. They also make excellent gifts when packaged in decorative boxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Hedge Hogs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to prolong their freshness, refrigerate them, where they can last up to two weeks. For best results, let them come to room temperature before serving, as it enhances their texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hedge Hogs contains roughly 214 calories, with 2g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g 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 Hedge Hogs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Hedge Hogs a day or two in advance. Just ensure they are properly stored in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They taste just as delicious even after a day, and the flavors meld beautifully when allowed to sit.
What can I use instead of margarine?
If you prefer not to use margarine, unsalted butter is a great substitute, offering a richer flavor. Alternatively, coconut oil can provide a dairy-free option while adding a hint of coconut flavor, which complements the dish well.
Are Hedge Hogs suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Hedge Hogs are suitable for vegetarians since they contain no meat or fish products. The recipe's ingredients are plant-based, making it a great addition to vegetarian recipes. Just ensure that the sugar used is not processed with bone char if you want to maintain strict vegetarian standards.
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).