Date and Cherry Bliss Balls: A Sweet Nostalgia

There’s something undeniably comforting about date and cherry balls. My grandmother used to make them every Christmas, a sticky, sweet treat that always found its way into our holiday stockings. The chewy texture of the dates, the burst of candied cherry, and the satisfying crunch of Rice Krispies, all rolled in sweet coconut—it was pure joy in every bite. It wasn’t Christmas until I had a few of these. Now, I carry on the tradition, and the aroma of melted butter and dates simmering on the stove always takes me straight back to her cozy kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 36
• Yield: 36 balls
• Dietary Type: Not specified (contains butter and sugar)

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1/2 lb dates, chopped fine
• 1/3 cup glace cherries, chopped fine
• 2 cups Rice Krispies
• 1/2 cup fine coconut

Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wax paper or baking sheet

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the melted butter, white sugar, chopped dates, and chopped glace cherries.
2. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. Ensure the heat is not too high, or the sugar may burn.
3. Continue to cook until the mixture becomes soft and the ingredients are well combined. This should take about 5-10 minutes. Constant stirring is crucial to prevent sticking and burning.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool until it is lukewarm to the touch. This is an important step, as adding the Rice Krispies to a very hot mixture will cause them to become soggy.
5. Once the mixture is lukewarm, stir in the Rice Krispies. Make sure to gently fold them in so they remain relatively intact.
6. Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small balls, approximately 1-inch in diameter.
7. Roll each ball in the fine coconut, ensuring they are evenly coated.
8. Place the finished date and cherry balls on a sheet of wax paper or a baking sheet to set.
9. Store the date and cherry balls in a sealed container at room temperature.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Date Preparation: To make chopping the dates easier, try lightly coating your knife with cooking spray. The dates will be less likely to stick to the blade. You can also use a food processor to chop them finely, but be careful not to over-process them into a paste.
• Cherry Variations: If you’re not a fan of glace cherries, you can substitute them with dried cranberries or other dried fruits. Just make sure to chop them finely as well.
• Butter Browning (Advanced): For a deeper, nuttier flavor, brown the butter before adding the other ingredients. Heat the butter in the saucepan over medium heat until it melts and begins to foam. Continue cooking until the butter turns a golden-brown color and has a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn it!
• Mixture Consistency: If the mixture is too sticky to handle, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before shaping the balls.
• Coconut Toasting: For a richer, more intense coconut flavor, lightly toast the coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat before rolling the balls. Be sure to watch it carefully, as it can burn quickly. Stir constantly until the coconut is lightly golden brown.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These date and cherry balls are best served at room temperature. They make a delightful addition to holiday dessert platters, a sweet treat alongside a cup of tea or coffee, or a simple snack any time of day.

Store the date and cherry balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to two months. To freeze, place the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with wax paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To thaw, simply place them in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Nutritional Information

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	75 kcal	4%
Total Fat	3g	5%
Saturated Fat	2g	10%
Cholesterol	5mg	2%
Sodium	10mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	12g	4%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	8g
Protein	0.5g	1%

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Ensure that the sugar you use is also vegan (some white sugars are processed using bone char).
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free Rice Krispies.
• Nut-Free: Ensure all ingredients are processed in a nut-free facility if allergies are a concern.
• Different Dried Fruits: Experiment with other dried fruits such as apricots, figs, or cranberries in place of the cherries.
• Spice Infusion: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the mixture for a warm, spicy flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the finished date and cherry balls for an extra touch of indulgence.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use Medjool dates for this recipe?
A: Yes, Medjool dates work well, but because they are softer, you may need to reduce the amount of butter slightly to achieve the right consistency.

Q: My mixture is too dry. What can I do?
A: Add a tablespoon of melted butter or a splash of milk (dairy or non-dairy) to the mixture and stir until it reaches the desired consistency.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Date and cherry balls can be made several days in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Q: The coconut isn’t sticking to the balls. Why?
A: Make sure the balls are still slightly sticky when you roll them in the coconut. If they are too dry, lightly moisten your hands before shaping them.

Q: What is the best way to chop the dates?
A: A sharp knife and a little patience work best. If the dates are very sticky, lightly coat your knife with cooking spray to prevent sticking. You can also use kitchen scissors.

Final Thoughts

Date and cherry balls are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a little piece of nostalgia, a taste of home, and a reminder of simpler times. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a delightful result that’s sure to please everyone. I encourage you to give it a try and share the joy with your loved ones. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert, a homemade gift, or a nostalgic treat to bring back cherished memories, these date and cherry balls are the perfect choice. So, gather your ingredients, get in the kitchen, and create some sweet magic!