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No-Bake Date Balls

No-Bake Date Balls are bite-sized treats made with sticky Medjool dates, toasted nuts, oats, and coconut, all combined without heat. The mixture forms a sticky dough that’s rolled into smooth, compact balls with a chewy, nutty, and slightly sweet final texture. These simple, nourishing snacks come together quickly and make a charming, rustic-looking sweet bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Healthy
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 10-12 pieces Medjool dates pitted and chopped
  • 1/2 cup toasted nuts chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats preferably old-fashioned
  • 1/4 cup toasted shredded coconut for rolling or mixing in
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract vanilla extract optional but adds warmth
  • Pinch salt to enhance sweetness
  • 1-2 tsp honey or maple syrup honey or maple syrup optional for extra binding

Equipment

  • Small mixing bowl
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Cookie scoop or tablespoon
  • Parchment paper-lined baking sheet

Method
 

  1. Pit the dates if they aren’t already pitted, then chop them into small pieces. This helps them blend more easily and creates a sticky base.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, combine the chopped dates and toasted nuts. Use a spatula or spoon to mash and stir until the dates start to break down and stick to the nuts, forming a sticky, cohesive mixture.
  3. Add the rolled oats, toasted shredded coconut, a pinch of salt, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture becomes thick and sticky.
  4. If the mixture feels too dry or crumbly, drizzle in a teaspoon or two of honey or maple syrup, then knead it in with your hands until the mixture is sticky enough to hold together.
  5. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the mixture and roll each portion between your palms to form small, smooth balls about 1 inch in diameter.
  6. Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Repeat until all the mixture is used up.
  7. Optional: Roll the balls in extra shredded coconut or chopped nuts for added texture and decorative appeal.
  8. Let the date balls rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to allow them to firm up, or refrigerate for at least 15 minutes for a more set texture.
  9. Serve the date balls straight from the fridge or at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

Feel free to customize these treats by adding chocolate chips, dried fruits, or spices like cinnamon or cardamom for extra flavor. For an even richer taste, use toasted nuts and coconut. These are perfect for a quick, healthy snack or a sweet gift.