Nutty Date Ball
A creamy, sweet‑savory treat blending nutty walnuts, chewy dates, sharp cheddar, and soft cream cheese, finished with a splash of rum—perfect for a quick snack or party bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine walnuts, dates, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and rum in a bowl and mix until evenly blended.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, pulse the walnuts and dates in a food processor before mixing. You can substitute pecans for walnuts if desired. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic version, try using apple juice or omit the rum altogether. For a twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Nutty Date Balls as a delightful appetizer or snack at your next gathering. They pair beautifully with a cheese platter or alongside crackers. Consider serving them with a sweet chutney or fruit preserves for a contrasting flavor. They also make a great addition to a holiday spread, similar to the Little Gumdrop Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Nutty Date Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just thaw them in the fridge before serving. Enjoy them cold or allow them to come to room temperature for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nutty Date Ball contains roughly 1218 calories, with 29g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 90g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (57% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 11g 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 make these Nutty Date Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Nutty Date Balls a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator, and they'll be ready to serve when you need them. This also allows the flavors to meld nicely, enhancing the taste.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese. This will give a tangy flavor while keeping the mixture creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, try using a vegan cream cheese spread.
How can I adjust the sweetness of this recipe?
To adjust sweetness, you can add more or fewer dates based on your preference. If you find it too sweet, consider adding a bit more cheese or nuts to balance the flavors. You can also mix in unsweetened coconut flakes for a different taste without adding extra sweetness.
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).