Old-Fashioned Date Balls

Old-Fashioned Date Balls: A Classic Sweet Treat

If you’re looking for a simple, nostalgic treat with a rich, chewy texture and a satisfying crunch, these Old-Fashioned Date Balls are the perfect bite-sized dessert. Made with sweet dates, buttery pecans, and crisped rice cereal, these date balls are deliciously sweet and have a delightful combination of flavors and textures. They’re quick to make, require no baking, and are perfect for holidays, potlucks, or as a homemade gift.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup (1 stick) butter
• ¾ cup white granulated sugar
• 8 ounces pitted dates, finely chopped
• 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups crisped rice cereal
• Powdered sugar, for dusting or rolling

Directions:

1. Chop the Dates and Pecans:

• Prepare the ingredients: Finely chop the dates and pecans, ideally in a food processor, to ensure a consistent texture. Avoid using pre-chopped dates, as they often contain coatings that can prevent the mixture from sticking together.

2. Cook the Date Mixture:

• Heat the mixture: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the butter, granulated sugar, and chopped dates. Stir continuously until the butter melts and the sugar fully dissolves, creating a smooth mixture.

3. Add the Pecans and Cereal:

• Remove from heat: Take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and finely chopped pecans.
• Mix in the cereal: Add the crisped rice cereal and mix thoroughly with a non-stick spatula until all the ingredients are well combined.

4. Shape the Date Balls:

• Form the balls: Allow the mixture to cool slightly so it’s easier to handle. Once cooled, use your hands to shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.

5. Add a Sweet Coating:

• Dust or roll in powdered sugar: Place the balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and either dust lightly with powdered sugar or roll them in a bowl of powdered sugar for a sweeter coating.

6. Store and Enjoy:

• Storage: Place the date balls in an airtight container. These treats can be stored at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

Recipe Notes:

• Customize with flavors: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the date mixture, or substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds.
• Make ahead: These date balls are perfect for making ahead of time, as they store well and stay fresh for several days.
• Coating options: While powdered sugar is a classic coating, you can also roll the date balls in shredded coconut or cocoa powder for different flavor variations.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 24 balls
• Calories: 120 per serving

These Old-Fashioned Date Balls are a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their sweet, chewy centers and a light coating of powdered sugar, they are both nostalgic and satisfying. Whether you’re making them for a holiday dessert tray, sharing them with friends, or simply enjoying them as a snack, these easy-to-make date balls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Print