Go Back

No Bake Date Balls

These no bake date balls are simple, chewy treats made by blending pitted dates with nuts, oats, and coconut, then rolling the mixture into small, bite-sized spheres. Their sticky, caramel-like texture is complemented by nutty and tropical flavors, making them a nostalgic and satisfying snack. Perfect for quick cravings or an energy-boosting treat without any fuss.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Healthy Snacks
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups pitted Medjool dates soft and caramel-like
  • 1/2 cup chopped almonds or pecans, toasted for extra flavor
  • 1 cup rolled oats for hearty texture
  • 1/4 cup shredded coconut to add chewy tropical notes
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup, for sticking
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt optional, enhances flavor

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • sturdy spoon
  • Cookie scoop or tablespoon
  • parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Pit the dates if they aren’t already pitted, then chop them into small pieces. Warm them briefly in the microwave for about 10 seconds if they feel dry—that helps them soften and become stickier.
  2. Add the chopped dates to a mixing bowl along with the toasted or raw chopped nuts, rolled oats, shredded coconut, and a pinch of sea salt. Use a sturdy spoon to combine everything thoroughly, breaking up the dates so they coat the mixture evenly.
  3. Drizzle the honey over the mixture, then stir well. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes sticky and holds together when pressed—this may take a minute or two. If it’s too dry, add a little more honey; if too wet, sprinkle in a bit more oats.
  4. Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and roll each portion between your palms to form small, round balls about 2.5 cm (1 inch) in diameter. Keep your hands damp to prevent sticking if needed.
  5. Place the formed balls onto a plate lined with parchment paper. Repeat until all the mixture is shaped into balls. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to help them set and firm up.
  6. Once chilled, give the date balls a final gentle roll if needed to smooth out any cracks. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, enjoying their chewy, caramel-like texture whenever cravings strike.

Notes

For extra flavor, toss shredded coconut in a dry skillet until lightly toasted before adding. Feel free to customize with cacao nibs, vanilla, or different nuts for variety.