Almond-Pecan Date Truffles

Total Time

Prep: 20 min. + chilling

Makes

1-1/2 dozen

Updated: Sep. 13, 2023
My daughter and I came across a date candy recipe when she was learning about ancient Egypt. We changed some of the spices and nuts to suit our taste. My dad was a beekeeper and Mom always made a coconut date ball for Christmas. The truffles remind me of past Christmases and are ideal for something quick yet festive on a holiday tray. —Lori Daniels, Beverly, West Virginia

Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup apple juice
  • 1 package (8 ounces) chopped dates
  • 1 cup finely chopped pecans, toasted
  • 1-1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup ground almonds, toasted

Directions

  1. In a microwave, warm apple juice. Stir in dates; let stand 5 minutes to soften, stirring occasionally. Remove dates from apple juice; discard liquid. Transfer dates to the bowl of a food processor fitted with the blade attachment; process until smooth. Add pecans and spices; pulse just until combined (mixture will be thick).
  2. Shape mixture into 1-in. balls; place on a waxed paper-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate, covered, 30-60 minutes.
  3. Roll date balls in almonds.

Test Kitchen tips
  • For an extra-special treat, after the truffles have chilled for 30 minutes, dip them in melted chocolate and chill until set.
  • To toast nuts, bake in a shallow pan in a 350° oven for 5-10 minutes or cook in a skillet over low heat until lightly browned, stirring occasionally.
  • Nutrition Facts

    1 date ball: 109 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 12g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein.