Hedgehogs
Nutty, chewy treats loaded with toasted coconut, dates, and crunchy walnuts or pecans—perfect for snacks, parties, or a sweet, low‑fat dessert that satisfies sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix dates, nuts, and 1½ cups coconut, then add the remaining coconut, brown sugar, and eggs.
- Shape the stiff mixture into rolls the thickness of a frankfurter and half its length.
- Roll each shape in the remaining coconut.
- Place the rolled hedgehogs on a greased baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the coconut is just slightly browned.
- If shaped into balls and cooked in paper cups, let them cool completely; they will set as they cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a different texture, try swapping half of the walnuts or pecans with almonds. Ensure the dates are moist for easy mixing; if not, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes. You can also use unsweetened coconut for a less sugary flavor. If the mixture is too sticky, chilling for 30 minutes can make shaping easier.
Serving Suggestions
These hedgehogs make a delightful snack on their own or can be served alongside a cup of coffee or tea. They pair well with fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast. For a festive touch, consider serving them on a dessert platter with Ethel's Coconut - Pecan Frosting as a dip.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover hedgehogs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer them chilled, refrigerate them for up to 10 days. Reheat slightly in a microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore some softness, but be cautious not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hedgehogs contains roughly 1416 calories, with 13g protein, 270g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (60% of the Daily Value), potassium (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 17g 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 substitute the nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute different nuts based on your preference or dietary restrictions. Almonds, hazelnuts, or even sunflower seeds work well. Just ensure that the total amount of nuts remains the same for the best texture.
What can I use instead of eggs for a vegan version?
You can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds. For each egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
How can I make these hedgehogs more chocolatey?
For a chocolatey twist, consider adding cocoa powder to the mixture or dipping the finished hedgehogs in melted chocolate. This will enhance the flavor while keeping the original texture intact.
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).