Almond-Pecan Date Truffles

Name: Almond-Pecan Date Truffles
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: about 1-1/2 dozen.
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

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

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).
Shape mixture into 1-in. balls; place on a waxed paper-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate, covered, 30-60 minutes.
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.