This no-bake date balls recipe is easy to make and creates a treat full of buttery richness, gooey dates, and crunchy Rice Krispies. It’s a classic recipe that can be enjoyed any time of year, but they are a holiday tradition in my family

Date balls recipe with many date balls rolled in coconut sitting on a plate.

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This beloved recipe brings back many childhood memories because my maternal grandmother, mom, and aunts have all made these date balls for as long as I can remember. The recipe makes a large batch, perfect for a cookie exchange or just to share during the holidays. They have graced every Christmas cookie platter in my family for several generations and are one of my favorite recipes to make.

Why You Will Love This Date Balls Recipe

You will love this old fashioned date balls recipe because it’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and is ready in under 30 minutes. Sometimes called coconut date balls, they can be made last minute and are perfect to serve at any celebration or get-together.

INGREDIENTS

These delicious nuggets of goodness are simple to make and use basic ingredients. You might already have most of the ingredients on hand.

Chopped dates or fresh dates
Butter or margarine
Sugar
Eggs
Milk
Vanilla extract
Sea salt
Crisp rice cereal (I use Rice Krispies)
Unsweetened shredded coconut or coconut flakes

HINT: I almost always try to buy chopped dates. However, if you cannot find them at the grocery store, you can finely chop whole pitted dates. Additionally, Medjool dates work best because they have a soft, sticky texture that helps bind this date balls recipe. Don’t use older dates as they tend to be too dry to bind the mixture.

EQUIPMENT

You will need the following to create this date balls recipe:

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Cook the Date Mixture

In a large saucepan over medium heat, bring the dates, butter, and sugar to a boil.

Note: If using whole dates, make sure they are chopped finely so they will easily melt into the mixture.

Beat the egg, milk, vanilla, and salt in a small bowl, then slowly add it to the saucepan while stirring constantly to avoid scrambling the egg.
Boil for 2 minutes.

Mixture of chopped dates, sugar, and butter on stove before it starts melting.

Mixture of dates, sugar, and butter with milk, egg, and vanilla as it bubbles.

Step 2: Mix with Rice Krispies

Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly (just enough to handle without burning).
Gently fold in the crisp rice cereal until evenly coated with the date mixture. Work quickly because it gets more difficult to stir as it cools.

Note: I always use Rice Krispies. I have tried store brands before and the date balls don’t turn out quite as crisp.

Pouring rice kirspies into the pot of the melted date mixture.

Mixing the rice krispies into the date mixture.

Step 3: Shape the Date Balls

Scoop out small portions of the mixture (about 1 teaspoon each) and roll them into balls using your hands.
Roll the balls in unsweetened coconut. The sticky dough allows the shredded coconut to stick to the outside. For added flavor, use toasted coconut.

Pot of date on rice krispie mixture sitting on the counter with a plate of rolled date balls and some date balls sitting on a plate of coconut.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Place the date balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them cool completely. For a firmer texture, refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
Store date balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for longer freshness. Place a piece of parchment paper between each layer so they won’t stick together.

Date Balls Recipe Substitutions and Modifications

Roll the balls in powdered sugar or finely chopped nuts instead of coconut.
Substitute honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a more natural sweetener, but use half the amount.
Swap the butter for healthy fats such as plant-based butter or coconut oil.
Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water).
Mix in a handful of chopped nuts, chia seeds, or sunflower seeds to create date energy balls. Add in a scoop of protein powder for a great way to create energy bites.
Toss in chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a hint of chocolate.

Bon Appétit

Date balls are not just a treat; they are little bites full of contrasting textures and flavors. The crispy cereal, buttery sweetness, and chewy dates create the perfect snack.

This basic date balls recipe is great for a family gathering, a holiday spread, or the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth. If you’re making a holiday cookie tray, check out my Holiday Mint Brownies to add a pop of color.

xoxo,
Molly