Description

These delicious date-nut balls are a sweet holiday treat combining rich butter, dates, sugar, crispy rice cereal, and pecans, coated with a dusting of confectioners’ sugar. They are perfect for gifting or enjoying as a festive snack with family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients

14 tablespoons butter
1 cup pitted chopped dates
1 cup white sugar
2 cups crispy rice cereal (such as Rice Krispies®)
1 cup chopped pecans

Coating

2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar, or as needed

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Melt Butter and Cook Dates: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the pitted chopped dates and white sugar, then cook and stir continuously until the mixture becomes thick and golden brown, about 10 to 15 minutes. Remove the saucepan from heat once done.
Mix in Cereal and Nuts: Immediately stir in the crispy rice cereal and chopped pecans into the hot date mixture. Mix thoroughly to evenly combine all ingredients.
Cool Mixture: Let the mixture cool for 5 to 10 minutes or until it is cool enough to handle comfortably without breaking down the texture.
Form Balls: Firmly pack and shape the mixture into small balls using your hands. Make sure to squeeze them tightly to ensure they hold together well.
Coat with Sugar: Pour the confectioners’ sugar into a resealable plastic bag, add the date-nut balls, seal the bag, and gently shake to evenly coat the balls with sugar.

Notes

Chopping the dates and nuts can be time-consuming but is essential for texture.
Make sure to pack the balls firmly to improve their shape and texture.
The coating step is messy but helps prevent sticking and adds sweetness.
These treats store well and make excellent gifts during the holidays.