Shaggy Date Nut Balls
Chewy, nutty date balls with crispy rice and coconut coating, perfect for a sweet snack or energy bite, suitable for those who enjoy rich, textured treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix oleo, chopped dates, sugar, and egg together and cook over low heat, stirring constantly for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and then add vanilla, Rice Krispies, and chopped pecans.
- Let the mixture cool.
- Shape into balls and roll in coconut.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half the oleo with unsalted butter. If you prefer a nuttier taste, you can replace pecans with walnuts or almonds. To enhance the sweetness, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Make sure to chop dates finely for even mixing, and try using gluten-free Rice Krispies for a gluten-free version of this treat. These Shaggy Date Nut Balls are perfect as a snack or dessert.
Serving Suggestions
These Shaggy Date Nut Balls can be served as a delightful snack or dessert at parties. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a great addition to a cozy afternoon gathering. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Maggie'S Jello Salad or as part of a dessert platter that includes other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Shaggy Date Nut Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them, where they can last for up to two weeks. To refresh them, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shaggy Date Nut Balls contains roughly 936 calories, with 10g protein, 204g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 12g 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 Shaggy Date Nut Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these Shaggy Date Nut Balls ahead of time. They store well in an airtight container and can last up to a week. Just make sure to let them cool completely before storing to maintain their texture.
What can I substitute for Rice Krispies?
If you don't have Rice Krispies, you can substitute them with any crispy rice cereal or even crushed granola for added flavor. Just ensure that the substitute maintains a similar texture for the best results.
Are there any variations I can try with this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips or dried fruit like cranberries to the mixture for extra flavor. Additionally, rolling the balls in chopped nuts or cocoa powder instead of coconut can create a different texture and taste.
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).