Instant Date Nut Roll

Prep: 15 min Serves: 2

A rich, no-bake date nut roll featuring crushed vanilla wafers, chopped dates, and pecans, perfect for a sweet, satisfying treat that requires minimal effort and overnight chilling.

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Ingredients

  • 1 (10 oz.) pkg. vanilla wafers, crushed
  • 1 pkg. dates, chopped
  • 1 c. pecans, chopped
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 c. mini marshmallows (optional)
  • 1 Tbsp. lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together until thoroughly moistened.
  2. Divide the mixture in half. Place each half on a sheet of plastic wrap and roll to form two 1 1/2-inch thick rolls.
  3. Seal the ends of the plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
  4. Slice and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using toasted pecans instead of raw. If you prefer a sweeter roll, add more mini marshmallows or a touch more sweetened condensed milk. You can also substitute the vanilla wafers with graham crackers for a different taste. Ensure the dates are pitted and chopped finely for even mixing.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the rolls into bite-sized pieces for easy serving at parties or gatherings. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a delightful afternoon treat. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Grandma Sweet Cream for added richness.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Date Nut Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy them again, simply slice and let them thaw at room temperature before serving, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Instant Date Nut Roll contains roughly 2616 calories, with 40g protein, 338g carbohydrates, and 133g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (129% of the Daily Value), protein (80% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (72% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1524mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).

2616 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 40g 80% DV
Total Fat 132.5g 100% DV
Carbs 337.7g 100% DV
Fiber 20.2g 72% DV
Sugar 199.5g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1524mg 66% DV
Potassium 1602.5mg 34% DV
Cholesterol 150.2mg 50% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 624.5mcg 69% DV
Vitamin C 25mg 28% DV
Vitamin D 3.9mcg 19% DV
Calcium 928.1mg 71% DV
Iron 23.2mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk Tree nuts

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 this recipe vegan?

Yes, to make a vegan version, you can substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or homemade vegan condensed milk. Ensure the vanilla wafers are also dairy-free.

What can I use instead of pecans?

If you don't have pecans on hand, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. Both will provide a nice crunch and flavor to the rolls. Just chop them finely to ensure even distribution.

Can I add other ingredients to the rolls?

Absolutely! You can incorporate other dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness and texture. Chocolate chips could also be a delightful addition for a more indulgent treat.

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).

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