Apple and Date Balls Recipe ππ°
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 20 balls
Description:
Indulge in the delightful fusion of apples, dates, and nuts with these wholesome Apple and Date Balls. This recipe is a sweet treat perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick dessert after dinner or a nutritious snack for your little ones. Bursting with flavor and nutrients, these bite-sized delights are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cooking apples
- 2/3 pears
- 1 cup pitted dates
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup walnuts
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare the Fruits: Begin by halving and coring the unpeeled cooking apples and pears. Place them in a large, heavy saucepan. If available, a cast-iron pan works exceptionally well for this recipe. |
| 2 | Add Dates and Spices: Incorporate the pitted dates, apple juice, and ground cinnamon into the saucepan with the fruits. This combination will infuse the mixture with sweetness and aromatic flavor. |
| 3 | Slow Cook: Over very low heat, allow the mixture to simmer gently for 4 to 6 hours, stirring occasionally. The goal is to cook the fruits down until they form a thick, dry paste-like consistency. This slow cooking process intensifies the flavors and creates a rich texture. |
| 4 | Cool and Shape: Once the mixture has reached the desired consistency, transfer it into a bowl and allow it to cool slightly. Then, with clean hands, roll the mixture into bite-sized balls. This step is where the fun begins, as you shape the mixture into perfect little orbs of sweetness. |
| 5 | Toast the Walnuts: While the balls are cooling, toast the walnuts under the broiler until they turn a beautiful golden brown. This extra step adds depth of flavor and a satisfying crunch to the final product. |
| 6 | Coat the Balls: Roll each ball in the toasted walnuts until evenly coated, pressing gently to ensure the nuts adhere to the surface. This coating adds a delightful nuttiness and textural contrast to the soft, sweet centers. |
| 7 | Wrap and Store: For a finishing touch, twist each ball into a candy wrapper or cellophane. Alternatively, you can use plastic wrap to individually wrap each ball, making them perfect for on-the-go snacking or gifting to loved ones. Store the wrapped balls in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. |
| 8 | Variation: For a twist on the original recipe, try using a combination of half ground cinnamon and half ground ginger instead of the full teaspoon of cinnamon. This variation adds a hint of warmth and complexity to the flavor profile, perfect for those who enjoy a little spice in their sweets. |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 71.5
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 1.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 14.2g
- Fiber: 2.1g
- Sugar: 11.1g
- Protein: 0.8g
Recipe Keywords:
Dessert, Cookie & Brownie, Apple, Fruit, Nuts, Canadian, Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Kid Friendly, Weeknight, For Large Groups, Stove Top
Enjoy Your Homemade Apple and Date Balls! ππ°
