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No-Bake Date Balls

These no-bake date balls are a simple, satisfying treat made by blending sticky Medjool dates with chopped nuts, coconut flakes, and a touch of vanilla and sea salt. The mixture is rolled into small, chewy bites with a glossy appearance, often coated in extra coconut or nuts for added texture. Perfect as a quick pantry snack or a nostalgic indulgence, they come together effortlessly without any oven time.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Global
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup cup Medjool dates, pitted soaked for 10 minutes if dry
  • 1/2 cup cup chopped nuts almonds or walnuts, toasted if desired
  • 1/4 cup cup unsweetened coconut flakes plus extra for rolling
  • 1 teaspoon teaspoon vanilla extract
  • a pinch sea salt
  • Optional cocoa powder for a hint of bitterness

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • Large mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Place the pitted Medjool dates in your food processor and pulse until they break down into a sticky, cohesive mass, about 30 seconds. The mixture should be glossy and slightly chunky.
  2. Add the vanilla extract, a pinch of sea salt, and a teaspoon of water or milk if needed to help blend. Pulse again until the mixture is smooth and sticky, with no large date pieces remaining.
  3. Transfer the blended dates to a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped nuts and coconut flakes, then stir or fold until evenly combined. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky but manageable.
  4. Using your hands, scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms into a compact ball. If the mixture is too sticky, dampen your hands lightly with water to prevent sticking.
  5. Roll each ball in extra coconut flakes or chopped nuts for a coating, pressing gently to make the coating stick. Place the finished balls on a plate or tray.
  6. Repeat the process with the remaining mixture until all the balls are formed and coated. Refrigerate the balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up and meld the flavors.
  7. Serve the date balls straight from the fridge for a chewy, caramel-like treat. Enjoy as a quick energy boost or a nostalgic snack.

Notes

For added flavor, sprinkle with sea salt or dip in dark chocolate before rolling. Keep stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.