Chocolate date and walnut balls

These low calorie chocolate date and walnut balls are incredibly simple to make, the perfect edible gift to give at Christmas or as a thank-you gift to take to your dinner hosts, simply delicious!

Serves: 18 (makes 18 balls)
Time to make: 30 mins

Total cost: $ 13.32 / $ 0.74 per serve

(at time of publication)

Ingredients

2 cups pitted dates
1 orange, zest
1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
100g block dark chocolate*
*NOTE: Ingredients with an asterisk (*) indicate that although this ingredient is usually gluten free, it's wise to check the label to be sure as product ingredients can vary and formulations can change.

Instructions

1 Chop dates roughly. Place in a bowl and microwave on high for 1 minute. Add orange zest. Use a stick blender or food processor to blend to a finely chopped paste.

2 Set 2 tablespoons walnuts aside. Add the remaining walnuts to dates and knead well to combine.

3 Using cold wet hands, roll in 18 small balls. Set aside.

4 Break or chop chocolate in small pieces. Melt chocolate slowly in a microwave or double-boiler. Use a cocktail fork or skewer to dip each ball in chocolate. Turn to ensure even coverage. Lift from bowl, allow any excess to run off, then transfer to wax or greaseproof paper on top of a plate or board. Sprinkle tops with the remaining walnuts and refrigerate to cool.

Nutrition Info (per serve)

Kilojoules 580kJ

Calories 139cal

Protein 3g

Total fat 6g

–Saturated fat 1g

Carbohydrates 20g

–Sugars 17g

Dietary fibre 1g

Sodium 10mg

Calcium 30mg

Iron 1mg

Note: Nutrition composition will vary depending on the exact ingredients used. For a guide to purchasing healthier packaged goods and general grocery items see here.