Mediterranean Date Balls with Walnuts and Coconut

Mediterranean Date Balls with Walnuts and Coconut

Mediterranean Date Balls with Walnuts and Coconut are a delicious and healthy treat. They are easy to make and packed with natural sweetness from dates, healthy fats from walnuts, and a fun texture from coconut. Perfect for a snack or a quick energy boost, these delightful bites are sure to please everyone.

Why Make This Recipe

These date balls are great for several reasons. First, they are simple to prepare with minimal ingredients. They are also nutritious, combining the natural energy of dates with the crunchiness of walnuts and the sweetness of coconut. Plus, they are versatile! You can enjoy them as a post-workout snack, a dessert, or a midday pick-me-up.

How to Make Mediterranean Date Balls with Walnuts and Coconut

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups Medjool dates (pitted)
• 3/4 cup walnuts
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (plus extra for rolling)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, walnuts, shredded coconut, cinnamon, sea salt, and vanilla extract.
2. Process until the mixture is well combined and sticky.
3. If the mixture is too dry, add a bit of water or more dates.
4. Using your hands, form small balls from the mixture and roll them in the extra shredded coconut.
5. Place the date balls on a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Mediterranean Date Balls with Walnuts and Coconut

You can serve these date balls as a snack, a dessert, or even at gatherings. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea and can be enjoyed straight from the fridge. Arrange them in a small bowl or on a platter to share with friends and family.

How to Store Mediterranean Date Balls with Walnuts and Coconut

Store the date balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper so they don’t stick together.

Tips to Make Mediterranean Date Balls with Walnuts and Coconut

• Make sure to use soft Medjool dates for the best texture.
• If you want to add some extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or more spices like nutmeg.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more dates if needed.

Variation

You can easily customize these date balls. Try adding other nuts like almonds or pecans. You can also mix in seeds such as chia or flaxseeds for extra nutrition. For a chocolate twist, roll them in cocoa powder instead of coconut.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of nuts?
Yes! You can swap walnuts for any nut you prefer, such as almonds or cashews.

2. Are these date balls vegan?
Yes! They are made entirely from plant-based ingredients.

3. Can I make these without a food processor?
While a food processor makes it easy, you can chop the ingredients finely by hand and mix them in a bowl. It may take more time but will still work!