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No-Bake Date Balls

These no-bake date balls are quick, wholesome treats made by blending soft dates with crunchy nuts, then rolling the mixture into small, chewy bites. They have a sticky, chewy texture with a hint of crunch, perfect for a natural sweet snack that requires no oven time. Their simple, nostalgic flavor makes them a satisfying and nourishing choice for busy mornings or anytime you crave something sweet and wholesome.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup cup pitted soft dates soak dry dates in warm water if necessary
  • 1/2 cup cup nuts (almonds or walnuts) lightly toasted and chopped
  • 1 tablespoon tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder sifted to prevent lumps
  • 1 teaspoon tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon tsp coconut oil optional, to help bind

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tablespoon
  • Parchment-lined baking sheet
  • Skillet

Method
 

  1. Place the pitted dates into a food processor and pulse until they break down into a sticky, slightly chunky paste. If your dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 5 minutes first, then drain and process.
  2. Toast the nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Remove from heat and chop roughly.
  3. Transfer the date paste to a mixing bowl and add the chopped nuts, sifted cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. If using, add the coconut oil to help bind the mixture.
  4. Mix everything together thoroughly until well combined and sticky. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more chopped nuts or oats; if too dry, add a tiny splash of coconut oil.
  5. Scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms into a compact ball. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
  6. Refrigerate the assembled balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This makes them easier to handle and enhances their chewy texture.
  7. Once chilled, serve the date balls directly from the fridge. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

For a nut-free version, substitute the nuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. You can also customize the flavor with dried berries or shredded coconut for added texture.