Date Balls
These one-bite balls run out at the table very soon, they are so delicious. I did not add any sugar into the mixture, just the dates own natural sugar is enough.
We like dates very much. I buy Medjool dates every time because this is not chemically dried, not processed food, no added sugar, no any preservative in it, it is fresh fruit. One hundred years ago, the Medjool was reserved for royalty in Morocco. It is more expensive than other dates, because it is labor-intensive. Medjool date trees have hand pollination, they are protected with nets from dust and rain. They are hand harvested several times during a year, even from one tree, because they all ripen at different times. Date season is from September through November.
Date is one of the healthiest fruits. The date tree is known as ‘The Tree of Life’ in Arabic culture. They are right, because dates are a very rich source of Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5 and Vitamin C, good source of Vitamin A, good carbohydrates and protein. Date contains significant amount of fiber, calcium, iron and magnesium. Its high fiber level helps digestion. Surprisingly date is good for diarrhea and constipation too. It reduces blood pressure and date’s potassium content reduces the risk of stroke. Date is highly recommended in case of anemia.
Dates are a concentrated source of natural sugars. People with diabetes may need to moderate their intake of date, one small study found it has a low glycemic index (GI) and shouldn’t cause large increases in blood sugar. I say be careful and check your body’s reaction.
Date is called aphrodisiac too, because its positive effect on sexuality, especially for men.
It’s not necessary to buy Medjool dates of course, but you will need to soak other dried dates in water for at least 4 hours before use, otherwise the mixture will not be creamy enough.
Date Balls
Equipment
- Food processor
Ingredients
Date Balls
- 15 pcs medjool date pitted
- 100 gram almond flour blanched finely ground almond
- 50 gram coconut oil
- 2 tsp cacao powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Toppings
- almond flour
- cacao powder
- desiccated coconut
Instructions
- Put all ingredients into the food processor and mix it for 2-3 minutes or until it’s creamy. (If you use dried dates, need to soak them in water for at least 4 hours.)
- Spoon creamy mixture into a bowl, it will be a bit sticky but do not worry, put it into the fridge for half an hour. It’s easier to use if it’s a bit harder.
- Use a teaspoon to take out one portion mixture for one ball. Form balls with your hand. Repeat it until the mixture runs out.
- Roll one part of balls into almond flour, second part into cacao powder and third part into desiccated coconut.
- Put date rolls into small bon-bon cups or just place on a serving plate and enjoy.