Yuletime Date Balls
Yuletime Date Balls are sweet, chewy treats combining chopped dates, nuts, and coconut, perfect for holiday gatherings and enjoyed by those with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the beaten egg, sugar, butter or margarine, salt, and chopped dates in a saucepan and cook, stirring frequently, until the dates are soft and the mixture is thick.
- Place the saucepan in iced water until the mixture is cool enough to handle.
- Add Rice Krispies and chopped nuts; mix quickly.
- Shape into balls with buttered hands.
- Roll the balls in shredded coconut.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white. If you're short on time, you can use pre-chopped dates found in most grocery stores. To make these date balls even more festive, add a splash of vanilla or a pinch of cinnamon to the mixture. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts from the recipe.
Serving Suggestions
These Yuletime Date Balls make a delightful holiday treat, perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a sweet snack. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Consider serving them alongside a platter of festive treats like Glazed Persimmon Pudding or other holiday goodies for a well-rounded dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover date balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To enjoy them slightly warm, you can briefly microwave them for about 10-15 seconds before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Yuletime Date Balls contains roughly 1028 calories, with 10g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2206mg per serving (96% 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 use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the finely chopped nuts with your favorite variety, such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Each nut will offer a unique flavor and texture, enhancing the overall taste of the date balls.
How can I make these date balls vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, replace the egg with a flaxseed egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and letting it sit for 5 minutes. Use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative in place of the butter or margarine.
What can I substitute for Rice Krispies?
If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute Rice Krispies with gluten-free crisped rice cereal. Alternatively, crushed graham crackers or finely chopped granola can also work, but they may alter the texture slightly.
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).