These plant-based date and nut rolls are a delicious and healthy snack made with simple, natural ingredients. Packed with the goodness of dates, almonds, pistachios, and chia seeds, they’re perfect for an energy boost or a guilt-free treat. Naturally gluten-free and vegan, these rolls are ideal for anyone looking for a wholesome snack option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Wholesome Ingredients: Made with dates, nuts, and seeds, these rolls are both nutritious and satisfying.
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe comes together in no time.
- Healthy Snack: Free from refined sugars, these rolls are naturally sweetened with dates and packed with protein and fiber.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite nuts or seeds to suit your taste.
- Portable and Convenient: Perfect for on-the-go snacking or a quick energy boost during busy days.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup dates (pitted)
- 1/2 cup almonds
- 1/2 cup pistachios (plus extra for coating, optional)
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 1/4 cup nut butter (e.g., almond or peanut butter)
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp salt
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- If the dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to soften. Drain and pat dry.
- Roughly chop the almonds and pistachios to make blending easier.
- Blend the Mixture:
- In a food processor, combine the dates, almonds, pistachios, chia seeds, nut butter, cardamom, and salt.
- Pulse until the mixture forms a sticky dough. Scrape down the sides of the processor as needed to ensure even mixing.
- Shape the Rolls:
- Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into cylinder shapes about 1–2 inches long. Alternatively, you can roll them into bite-sized balls.
- Coat with Pistachios (Optional):
- Finely chop some extra pistachios and roll the date and nut rolls in them for a decorative and crunchy coating.
- Chill and Set:
- Place the rolls on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Serve:
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 18 rolls
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Nut Substitutions: Swap almonds and pistachios for cashews, walnuts, or pecans.
- Flavor Twist: Add a touch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- Coconut Coating: Roll the finished rolls in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add 1–2 tbsp of cocoa powder to the mixture for a chocolatey version.
- Seed Mix: Include sunflower or flax seeds for more texture and nutrition.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: These rolls freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of dates?
Yes, Medjool dates work best for their natural sweetness and sticky texture, but Deglet Noor or other varieties will also work. Soak them if they are too dry.
2. What kind of nut butter is best?
Almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter all work well. Choose a natural, unsweetened variety for the healthiest option.
3. Can I make these without a food processor?
Yes, finely chop the ingredients and mix them by hand or with a sturdy spoon, though the texture may be less uniform.
4. Are these rolls kid-friendly?
Absolutely! They’re naturally sweet and packed with nutrients, making them a great snack for kids.
5. Can I omit the chia seeds?
Yes, but chia seeds add extra nutrition and help bind the mixture. You can replace them with flaxseeds or omit them entirely.
6. How do I keep the rolls from sticking to my hands?
Lightly grease your hands with a small amount of oil or water when shaping the rolls to prevent sticking.
7. Can I use roasted nuts?
Yes, roasted nuts add a deeper flavor, but make sure they’re unsalted to avoid overpowering the flavor.
8. How can I make this recipe nut-free?
Replace the nuts with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or a seed butter like tahini for a nut-free version.
9. Can I add dried fruits?
Yes, dried cranberries, apricots, or raisins can be added for extra flavor and texture.
10. Are these rolls suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! They’re perfect for making ahead and storing for quick, healthy snacks throughout the week.
Conclusion
These date and nut rolls are a nutritious and delicious way to satisfy your snack cravings. Packed with natural sweetness and the crunch of nuts, they’re perfect for on-the-go energy or an afternoon treat. Easy to make and customizable, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try them today and enjoy a wholesome snack that’s as tasty as it is healthy!
Print
Date and Nut Rolls
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These plant-based date and nut rolls are a healthy, gluten-free, and vegan snack made with simple and natural ingredients. Perfect for on-the-go energy or as a nutritious treat!
Ingredients
Produce:
- 1 cup dates (pitted and chopped)
Condiments:
- 1/4 cup nut butter (e.g., almond, peanut, or cashew butter)
Baking & Spices:
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp salt
Nuts & Seeds:
- 1/2 cup almonds
- 1/2 cup pistachios (plus extra for coating, if desired)
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
Instructions
Prep the Ingredients:
- Soak the chopped dates in warm water for 10-15 minutes to soften them. Drain well.
- Pulse the almonds and pistachios in a food processor until finely chopped but not powdered.
2. Combine the Mixture:
- Add the softened dates, nut butter, cardamom, salt, and chia seeds to the food processor with the chopped nuts.
- Process the mixture until it forms a sticky dough. If the mixture is too dry, add a teaspoon of water or nut butter at a time until it binds.
3. Shape the Rolls:
- Scoop out small portions of the dough (about a tablespoon) and roll them into cylindrical or ball shapes.
- Roll the finished rolls in finely chopped pistachios for a decorative coating, if desired.
4. Chill and Serve:
- Place the rolls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a healthy snack or dessert.
Notes
- Storage: Store the date and nut rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute the almonds and pistachios with sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version. Use sunflower seed butter instead of nut butter.
- Add-Ins: Customize the recipe by adding unsweetened shredded coconut, cocoa powder, or dried cranberries for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- chill time: 1 hour
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Plant-Based, Gluten-Free