Are you craving a sweet treat that's both incredibly simple to make and surprisingly satisfying? Look no further than these delightful Woolworths Date Balls! This recipe uses readily available ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry, making it perfect for a quick after-school snack, a weekend baking project, or even a last-minute addition to your next dinner party. Forget complicated baking; these no-bake date balls are the epitome of easy recipes and healthy meals. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pitted dates (Medjool dates are ideal for their soft texture)
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup desiccated coconut
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter (or any nut butter of your choice)
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (optional, for a chocolatey twist)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans – your preference!)
- Extra desiccated coconut for rolling (optional)
Instructions:
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Prep the Dates: If your dates are particularly firm, you can quickly pulse them in a food processor to soften them. This will make the blending process much easier. Otherwise, you can roughly chop them.
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the dates, rolled oats, desiccated coconut, peanut butter, cocoa powder (if using), and honey/maple syrup (if using). Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated.
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Add Nuts: Stir in your chopped nuts.
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Shape the Balls: Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
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Roll in Coconut (Optional): Roll the date balls in extra desiccated coconut for an attractive finish and extra texture.
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Chill & Enjoy: Place the date balls on a plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow them to set. Then, enjoy your homemade delicious dishes!
Tips for Success:
- Date Variety: Medjool dates are recommended for their naturally soft texture, but other varieties will work too. Adjust the amount of liquid (honey/maple syrup) if needed, depending on the date’s moisture content.
- Nut Butter: Feel free to experiment with different nut butters like almond butter or cashew butter.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to your liking. Some dates are naturally sweeter than others.
- Storage: Store your date balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
- Spiced Date Balls: Add a pinch of cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm and comforting flavor.
- Chocolate Date Balls: Increase the cocoa powder to ½ cup for an intensely chocolatey treat.
- Fruity Date Balls: Add ½ cup of chopped dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per ball, may vary based on ingredients):
- Calories: 100-120
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 15-18g
- Protein: 2-3g
These Woolworths Date Balls are a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas, perfect for a healthy snack or dessert. They're incredibly easy to make, customizable to your preferences, and a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth without excessive guilt. Enjoy creating these simple, yet satisfying, homemade cooking delights!