Date-Nut Balls

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Old-fashioned Date-Nut Balls are a sweet, chewy no-bake treat made with buttery dates, chopped nuts and crisp rice cereal, then rolled in coconut. From my grandmother’s recipe collection, these nostalgic Christmas favorites are easy to make and perfect for sharing.

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Diet Gluten Free

Prep Time 20

Stovetop Cooking Time 7

Servings balls

Calories 102kcal

Author Lise Sullivan Ode

Equipment

Heavy-bottomed saucepan 2.65 quart

Ingredients

½ cup salted butter 1 stick
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 package 10 ounces pitted dates, finely chopped
1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
2 cups crisp rice cereal such as Rice Krispies
1½ cups unsweetened shredded coconut approximately

Instructions

Line a baking sheet or large platter with parchment paper. Place the coconut in a shallow bowl and set aside.
Melt the butter in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the sugar and chopped dates. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has mostly dissolved and the dates have softened into a thick, sticky mixture, about 5 to 7 minutes. As the dates soften, press them against the side of the saucepan with a wooden spoon to help break them down. Do not use high heat, as the sugar and dates can scorch easily.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately stir in the chopped nuts until combined. Gently fold in the crisp rice cereal, taking care not to crush it. Let the mixture cool for about 5 minutes, or just until it is comfortable enough to handle. Don’t allow it to cool completely because it will become more difficult to shape and the coconut may not stick.
Scoop out rounded tablespoonfuls and roll them into approximately 1-inch balls. If the mixture sticks to your hands, lightly butter your palms or wear food-safe gloves. Immediately roll each ball in the shredded coconut, pressing gently so the coconut adheres. Place the finished balls on the prepared baking sheet and allow them to cool completely.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Place parchment or wax paper between the layers to prevent sticking. Makes approximately 30 balls.

Notes

Make ahead: These date-nut balls freeze well! Store in an airtight, freezer-safe container with parchment or wax paper between layers. Take them out of the freezer and let them thaw on the counter the day before your party.

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