You’re in for a treat! Discover the joy of making date & walnut cinnamon bites.
These little morsels are packed with flavor, perfect for a snack or dessert. They’re easy to make and even easier to devour.
You’ll love the combination of sweet dates, crunchy walnuts, and warm cinnamon. Plus, they’re surprisingly healthy.
Let’s dive into the process and get your kitchen smelling like a dream. Ready to roll up your sleeves and get started?
Gathering Your Ingredients for Date & Walnut Cinnamon Bites
You’ll need to start by gathering all your ingredients for the date & walnut cinnamon bites. A trip to the store might be in order if you’re missing any essentials. You’ll need dates, walnuts, cinnamon, honey, and oats.
Don’t forget to grab some vanilla extract and sea salt, they’re crucial for the flavor. Now, don’t just toss everything in your cart. Consider the quality. Opt for organic dates and walnuts if you can, it’ll make a difference. And, make sure your cinnamon is fresh for that warm, spicy kick. Also, try to find raw, unfiltered honey, it’s healthier and tastier. Your oats should be old-fashioned, not quick oats.
Now you’re ready. With all your ingredients in place, you can start making those delicious bites.
Preparing Your Dates and Walnuts
First off, you’re going to need to get your ingredients ready, which means taking care of the dried fruits and nuts. You’ll want to start with your dates. Unpack them, remove any pits if they’re not already pitted, and give them a quick rinse. They can be sticky, so a little water helps. Then, chop them up finely. You’re aiming for small pieces that’ll blend well into your bites.
Next, it’s walnut time. You’ve got two choices here – you can chop them up or crush them. It’s totally up to you. Either way, you want them to be small enough to mix well but still give a bit of crunch. Remember, you’re not making walnut dust here.
After prepping, set them aside with your dates.
The Process of Making the Cinnamon Bites
Now that you’ve prepped the ingredients, let’s dive right into the rolling and baking part of this sweet little snack.
You’ll start by combining your chopped dates and walnuts with some melted butter, honey, and a hefty sprinkle of cinnamon. Mix it all up until everything’s coated.
Next, you’ll roll this mixture into bite-sized balls. Don’t be shy, get your hands right in there.
Once you’ve got your bites all rolled out, it’s time to bake. Pop them into a preheated oven and let them bake until they’re golden and fragrant. You’ll know they’re done when you can’t resist the aroma wafting from your oven.
Just remember, they’re hot, so let them cool before devouring.
And there you’ve it, your very own homemade date and walnut cinnamon bites. Enjoy!
Storing and Serving Date & Walnut Cinnamon Bites
Storing these sweet treats properly is key to maintaining their fresh and delicious taste. After you’ve made your date and walnut cinnamon bites, let them cool completely. Once they’ve cooled, you can store them in an airtight container. They’ll keep for up to a week if stored at room temperature.
When you’re ready to serve, you don’t need to do anything fancy. These bites are perfect just as they are. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could warm them slightly in the oven or microwave. Serve them with a nice cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat.
Health Benefits of Date & Walnut Cinnamon Bites
You’re not only enjoying a tasty treat, but also reaping numerous health benefits from these delectable morsels.
Dates, packed with fiber, promote digestive health. They’re rich in antioxidants, fighting off harmful free radicals in your body.
Walnuts, on the other hand, are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids that are vital for brain health. They’re also rich in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation.
The cinnamon in these bites isn’t just for flavourr; it’s got health benefits too. It’s known to have potent anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate your blood sugar levels.
Date & Walnut Cinnamon Balls
Equipment
- 1 food processor
Ingredients
- 1 & 1/2 cup pitted dates 200g
- 1 cup raw walnuts 100g
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup flax & chia seeds I use the Garden of Life combination bag
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp each ground cardamom clove
- 1/2 tsp Diamond Crystal kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- In a small food processor, add all the ingredients.
- Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped and beginning to form a crumb or sand-like mixture, this will take a few minutes.
- Once the ingredients are well-combined, use your hands to mash and roll the ingredients into equal-sized balls. They should be about the size of 1-2 tbsp each. This recipe yields usually between 8-11 balls.
- Roll tightly and store in the fridge. Serve whenever!
HELP SECTION
Where Can I Buy the Best Dates and Walnuts for This Recipe?
You’re looking for top-quality dates and walnuts. Try checking out local farmers’ markets or organic stores. Online, you might find great options at websites like Amazon, Nuts.com, or even directly from growers’ websites.
Can I Use Other Types of Nuts in This Recipe Instead of Walnuts?
Absolutely, you can! While walnuts are typically used, feel free to experiment with other nuts like almonds or pecans. Just ensure they’re fresh and properly chopped to maintain the recipe’s texture and flavor.
Are There Any Specific Dietary Restrictions to Consider While Making These Cinnamon Bites?
Yes, you should consider dietary restrictions. If you’re catering to vegans, use a plant-based milk. Also, for gluten-free guests, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free option. Always check for nut allergies too.
Can I Use These Cinnamon Bites as a Gift? if Yes, How Should I Package Them?
Absolutely, you can gift these treats! Package them in a decorative box lined with parchment paper. Tie it with a ribbon for a festive touch. Remember to include a note about any potential allergens.
Are There Any Alternatives for Cinnamon if I’m Allergic to It?
Absolutely! If you’re allergic to cinnamon, you can substitute it with allspice or nutmeg. They’re both great alternatives that’ll still give your dishes a warm, spicy flavor without causing any allergic reactions.
Conclusion
So, you’ve made the delicious Date & Walnut Cinnamon Bites! They’re not just a tasty treat but also packed with health benefits.
Store them properly to maintain their freshness and enjoy them anytime you crave something sweet. These bites are perfect for a quick snack or a healthy dessert.
Remember, the joy of cooking lies in experimenting, so don’t hesitate to add your own twist next time.
Happy cooking!
