Nothing says Christmas like Mama Rosa’s Date Nut Balls. These crispy balls of juicy dates, tropical coconut, and chopped pecans, covered in powdered sugar.
I did not lie when I said you would not find holiday baking here. I said I wasn’t baking, but I didn’t say anything about David not getting into the Christmas spirit.
You see, David’s mama moved to Ohio last year. This will be the second Christmas that he hasn’t seen her at Christmas. He misses her a lot and it doesn’t feel like Christmas without her Date Nut Balls.
Last year, he called her up and got her recipe so he could make some. He has taken it upon himself to make them each Christmas so that he feels closer to his mama during the holiday season.
How To Make Date Nut Balls:
First, mix the dates, butter, and brown sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat. Cook on low heat until dates are tender and mashed.
Next, stir in the pecans and coconut. Mix well, then remove the mixture from heat. Stir in the Rice Krispies. Make sure the mixture is incorporated well. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, before rolling into balls.
Now, wet your hands (keeps the mixture from sticking) and make the mixture into balls quickly while the mixture is still warm. The balls should be about 1 1/2 to 2 inches in diameter; about 20 date nut balls.
Allow the date nut ball to cool completely. Finally, they are cool, roll in powdered sugar.
For best results, refrigerate overnight before serving.
This is what makes Christmas special; keeping memories alive and sharing them with others. This is what Christmas means to David. The family we got to see sure did enjoy them.
What treat makes Christmas, CHRISTMAS to you? Comment below!
Mama Rosa’s Date Nut Balls
Ingredients
- 8 ounce package whole dates pitted and chopped
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup fine coconut sweetened
- 1 cup light brown sugar not packed
- 1 cup pecans chopped
- ¼ cup powdered sugar to coat
Instructions
- Mix Dates, butter and brown sugar in a pot. Cook on low heat until dates are tender and mashed.
- Add pecans and coconut. Remove from heat.
- Add Rice Krispies. Stir well. Make balls quickly.
- Cool and roll in powdered sugar. Refrigerate overnight.
Robin Heath says
Hi. I have a friend who’s late wife used to make these for him. This will be my first time making anything remotely like this! I want to surprise him with these as he’s been really incredible for me these past few years when I’ve needed a friend the most. He’s apparently addicted to this treat! 😆 I just wanted to clarify one thing….on the coconut, is that sweetened or unsweetened coconut? I really want to make sure these turn out perfectly! Thank you!
The Mountain Kitchen says
Hi Robin! You have a great question. We used sweetened coconut by Baker’s found in the baking aisle of the grocery store. I have updated the recipe to reflect the change. It is so nice of you to treat your friend. I hope he will enjoy the Date Nut Balls. Thanks so much for stopping by The Mountain Kitchen!
Lynne Craig says
I have made these b4 but rolling them in 10x sugar puts them over the top!
The Mountain Kitchen says
Just don’t inhale while eating them, Lynne…lol! Thanks for commenting and the 5-star rating! 🙂
Donna Powell says
This is the same recipe that I’ve used for years. Dromedary chopped dates was the brand name I have always used but they have stopped making this product. Could you tell me the brand name of dates that you use. I have had trouble in the past with dates not melting properly or has a off taste. Thanks so much.
The Mountain Kitchen says
Hi Donna! I usually purchase Bard Valley Natural Delights. They aren’t that cheap, but they are the best quality in my opinion. Enjoy the Date Nut Balls!
Sally Webber says
Awesome !!!!!
Valerie says
If I do not want to add the coconut, do I alter the other ingredients any?
The Mountain Kitchen says
Hi Valerie, I’m not sure because we have never made them without the coconut. I don’t think I would alter any other ingredients. Good luck!
John Hance says
Can you use margarine in place of butter?
The Mountain Kitchen says
Yes, John, you can use margarine if that’s what you prefer. Enjoy the date nut balls!