Fruit and Nut Balls

Fruit and Nut Balls Recipe with Dates, Raisins, Cocoa, Walnuts, and Sunflower Seeds

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 24

Introduction

Fruit and Nut Balls are a delicious and nutritious snack that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while also providing a boost of energy. These bite-sized treats are easy to make and can be enjoyed on the go or as a healthy dessert option.

History

The origins of Fruit and Nut Balls can be traced back to ancient times when dried fruits and nuts were commonly used as a source of sustenance for travelers and warriors. Over the years, different variations of this recipe have emerged, with each culture adding its own unique twist to the mix.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of pitted dates
0.5 cup of dark or golden raisins
2 tbsp of cocoa or carob powder
0.5 cup of walnuts
0.5 cup of sunflower seeds
ground walnuts

How to prepare

In a food processor or meat grinder, grind together dates, raisins, cocoa (or carob powder), walnuts, and sunflower seeds.
Take the mixture and press it into 24 small balls.
Roll the balls in the ground nuts.
Store the balls in an airtight container.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
Swap out the walnuts for almonds or pecans for a different taste.
Mix in some shredded coconut or chia seeds for added texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

- If the mixture is too dry, add a splash of water or honey to help bind everything together.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits.

- Store the Fruit and Nut Balls in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for longer.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these Fruit and Nut Balls as a quick snack on the go, a post-workout treat, or a healthy dessert option. They also make a great addition to lunchboxes or picnic baskets.

Cooking Techniques

Grinding the ingredients in a food processor or meat grinder helps to blend everything together and create a smooth consistency for rolling into balls.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe by swapping out any nuts, seeds, or dried fruits with your favorites. You can also use cocoa powder instead of carob powder for a chocolatey twist.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare a batch of Fruit and Nut Balls ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes them a convenient grab-and-go snack option.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Fruit and Nut Balls on a decorative platter or in a glass jar for a visually appealing presentation. You can also dust them with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for an extra touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these Fruit and Nut Balls with a cup of herbal tea, a glass of almond milk, or a serving of fresh fruit for a well-rounded snack or dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the Fruit and Nut Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. They can also be frozen for longer storage. To reheat, simply let them come to room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to soften.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Fruit and Nut Balls contains approximately 150 calories, making them a satisfying snack option without going overboard on calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Fruit and Nut Balls contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates, making them a great source of energy for your body.

Fats

With a combination of healthy fats from nuts and seeds, Fruit and Nut Balls provide around 8 grams of fats per serving.

Proteins

These tasty treats also offer a good amount of protein, with about 4 grams per serving, helping to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Vitamins and minerals

Fruit and Nut Balls are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium, which are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Please note that this recipe contains nuts and seeds, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before consuming.

Summary

Overall, Fruit and Nut Balls are a nutritious and delicious snack option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Fruit and Nut Balls are a tasty and nutritious snack option that is easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals, these bite-sized treats are a great addition to your healthy eating routine. Enjoy them on the go, as a post-workout snack, or as a guilt-free dessert option.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Fruit and Nut Balls. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, that I stumbled upon a worn and tattered cookbook in the back of my grandmother's kitchen. The pages were yellowed with age, and the writing was faded, but as I flipped through the pages, I came across a recipe that caught my eye.

The recipe for Fruit and Nut Balls was unlike anything I had ever seen before. It called for a mixture of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, all rolled together into bite-sized balls and coated in powdered sugar. It sounded delicious, and I couldn't wait to give it a try.

I asked my grandmother about the recipe, but she just shrugged and said she had never made it before. So, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in the kitchen, following the instructions in the cookbook as best as I could.

As I mixed the fruits, nuts, and spices together, the sweet and spicy aroma filled the kitchen, and I knew I was onto something special. I rolled the mixture into small balls, coated them in powdered sugar, and set them aside to set. When they were finally ready, I took a bite and was amazed by the explosion of flavors in my mouth. The sweet, tangy fruits paired perfectly with the crunchy nuts and warm spices, and I knew I had stumbled upon a recipe worth keeping.

Over the years, I perfected the recipe for Fruit and Nut Balls, tweaking it here and there to suit my own tastes. I added a touch more cinnamon for warmth, a splash of rum for richness, and a sprinkle of sea salt for balance. Each time I made a batch of Fruit and Nut Balls, they disappeared quickly, devoured by family and friends who couldn't get enough of the sweet and spicy treats.

As time went on, I began to experiment with different variations of the recipe. I added chopped chocolate for an extra indulgent touch, rolled the balls in crushed nuts for a crunchy coating, and even drizzled them with a honey glaze for a bit of extra sweetness. Each new iteration was met with rave reviews, and I knew I had truly mastered the art of making Fruit and Nut Balls.

I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who all clamored for a taste of the delicious treats. I even entered them into a local baking competition and won first prize, much to the delight of my family who had been enjoying the Fruit and Nut Balls for years.

As I grew older, the recipe for Fruit and Nut Balls became a cherished tradition in my family. I would make a batch for every holiday, special occasion, and even just as a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of tea. The recipe had become a part of me, a piece of my history that I could pass down to future generations.

And so, as I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover the recipe for Fruit and Nut Balls, I am filled with gratitude for the simple joys that cooking and baking can bring. The recipe may have come from a worn and tattered cookbook, but the memories and moments shared over a plate of delicious treats are priceless. And that is a gift that I will always treasure.