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Old-Fashioned Date Balls

Nostalgic Old-Fashioned Date Balls That Melt in Your Mouth

These Old-Fashioned Date Balls are a delightful no-bake gluten-free treat that brings nostalgia and sweetness to your holiday celebrations.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 balls
Course: Desserts
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 cup whole pitted dates The main sweetener and binder
  • ½ cup finely chopped pecans Can be swapped with walnuts or left out for nut-free options
  • 2 cups crispy rice cereal Keep them whole for the best texture
For the Sweet Coating
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar Provides extra sweetness
  • ½ cup powdered sugar For rolling to prevent sticking
Optional Binding Agent
  • 2 tablespoons butter Melted coconut oil can be a dairy-free alternative

Equipment

  • food processor
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula
  • fine mesh strainer
  • parchment paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Chop Dates and Pecans: Use a food processor to finely chop about 1 cup of whole pitted dates and ½ cup of finely chopped pecans until sticky and well combined.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the processed dates and pecans with 2 cups of crispy rice cereal and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Mix until evenly incorporated.
  3. Form Balls: With clean hands, roll about a tablespoon of mixture into a ball, approximately 1 inch in diameter, and place on a parchment-lined plate.
  4. Dust with Sugar: Sprinkle powdered sugar over the formed date balls and gently roll to coat evenly.
  5. Chill (optional): Place coated date balls in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ballCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 1gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 5mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 2mg

Notes

These Old-Fashioned Date Balls are easy to make and sure to charm your guests. Adjust sweetness and ingredients based on your preference.

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