Marie Date Roll
A rich, chewy date roll with nuts and vanilla, perfect for a sweet snack or dessert, appealing to those who enjoy nutty, caramel-like flavors and homemade treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir the sugars and milk constantly until a soft ball forms. Stir in the chopped dates and cook until it reaches the hard ball stage.
- Add the nuts, butter, and vanilla. Beat the mixture until it holds its shape.
- Pour out onto a damp cloth and work into a roll. Chill the roll and then slice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using light brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can also substitute the nuts with your favorite variety, such as pecans or walnuts, for a twist. When cooking the mixture, make sure to use a candy thermometer to ensure you reach the hard ball stage accurately, which will help achieve the perfect texture for rolling.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the chilled date roll into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter for a delightful dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making a perfect afternoon snack. For a festive touch, consider serving with a side of whipped cream or ice cream, perhaps even alongside a slice of Sister Farmer'S Famous Coconut Cake for a sweet spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover date rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For best results, slice the rolls only when ready to serve, to maintain their freshness. If desired, you can gently reheat the slices in the microwave for a few seconds to soften them slightly before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marie Date Roll contains roughly 1145 calories, with 7g protein, 210g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 5g 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 use fresh dates instead of canned ones?
Yes, you can use fresh dates instead of canned. Just make sure to remove the pits and chop them finely. Keep in mind that fresh dates may have a slightly different moisture content, so you may need to adjust the cooking time to reach the desired consistency.
What types of nuts work best in this recipe?
You can use a variety of nuts in this recipe, including walnuts, pecans, or almonds. Each will impart a distinct flavor and texture. If you're looking for a nut-free version, you can easily omit the nuts or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
How do I know when the mixture has reached the hard ball stage?
The hard ball stage occurs at around 250°F (121°C) on a candy thermometer. If you don’t have one, you can test by dropping a small amount of the mixture into a glass of cold water; it should form a firm ball that holds its shape. This stage is crucial for ensuring the roll maintains its form when chilled.
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).