Mom'S Date Nut Candy
A rich and chewy date nut candy with sweet caramel flavors, combining dates, pecans, and a buttery sugar syrup, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sugar, milk, and butter until it forms a soft ball in a cup of cold water.
- Add chopped dates and continue cooking until it forms a firm ball in a cup of cold water.
- Beat the mixture until creamy.
- Add chopped pecans and spread on a buttered dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the butter is fully melted before adding it to the mixture. You can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired. If you prefer a sweeter treat, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract when beating the mixture. Make sure to test for the soft and firm ball stages accurately, as this is crucial for the right consistency.
Serving Suggestions
These date nut candies make a delightful dessert on their own but can also be accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for afternoon snacks or gatherings. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Red Hot Christmas Wreaths for a holiday treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, which may extend their freshness for up to two weeks. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds, but be cautious not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Date Nut Candy contains roughly 637 calories, with 9g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 10g 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 dried fruits other than dates?
Yes, you can substitute dates with dried apricots or figs for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the dried fruits are chopped into small pieces for even distribution in the candy mixture.
What can I do if my mixture doesn't reach the right consistency?
If your mixture remains too runny after cooking, return it to the heat and cook for a few more minutes. Test again for the firm ball stage in cold water. If it’s still too soft, it may require additional cooking time to achieve the desired consistency.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. The sugar should be checked to ensure it's vegan, as some sugars are processed with bone char.
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).