Mary'S Christmas Date Roll Candy
Mary's Christmas Date Roll Candy is a sweet, nutty treat with rich dates and creamy texture, perfect for holiday gatherings and those who enjoy homemade confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, salt, milk, and butter in a saucepan.
- Simmer until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add dates to the mixture.
- Cook, stirring constantly, to soft ball stage (236°F).
- Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
- Beat until the mixture is creamy and thick.
- Add chopped nuts and vanilla to the mixture.
- Mix thoroughly to combine.
- Pour the mixture onto a cold, wet cloth.
- Knead until smooth.
- Shape into a roll and wrap in wax paper.
- Chill until firm.
- Cut into thin slices and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, ensure the dates are soft and fresh. If they are hard, soak them in warm water for a few minutes before using. You can substitute the nuts with your favorite variety, such as almonds or walnuts, depending on your preference. Keep an eye on the cooking temperature to avoid burning; use a candy thermometer for precision. This treats pairs beautifully with Sally'S Cranberry Coffee Cake for a festive dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the date roll into thin slices and arrange them on a festive platter. They make a delightful addition to holiday dessert tables or can be enjoyed as a sweet snack with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider pairing them with a creamy dip or alongside other treats, like Karen'S Cookies, for a varied dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover date roll candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To maintain its texture, place parchment paper between layers if stacking. Avoid freezing as it may alter the consistency. When ready to serve, you can let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary'S Christmas Date Roll Candy contains roughly 159 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value).
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, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Use plant-based milk to replace regular milk. This will maintain the recipe’s integrity while making it suitable for a vegan diet.
What can I use instead of chopped nuts?
If you have nut allergies or prefer not to use nuts, you can replace them with seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch. Dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can also add a nice texture and flavor.
How can I tell if my candy has reached the soft ball stage?
Using a candy thermometer is the most reliable method to check the temperature. Alternatively, you can drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water; if it forms a soft ball that flattens when removed, it has reached the proper consistency.
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).