Dreamy Dandelion Date Balls

Name: Dreamy Dandelion Date Balls
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 12 balls
Ingredients: 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted; 1/2 cup dandelion greens, chopped; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup shredded coconut; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Artisanal Baking Recipes

I absolutely adore these Dreamy Dandelion Date Balls! The first time I made them, I was amazed by how the natural sweetness of dates perfectly complements the earthy notes of dandelion. Not only are they delightful to eat, but they are also an energizing snack packed with nutrients. I've made these for get-togethers and they always get rave reviews. Plus, they are super easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe in my kitchen. Let me share my tips for making them even more special!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-02T18:02:27.738Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining dandelion greens with dates, I was intrigued yet skeptical. However, after one bite, I was hooked! The sweetness of the dates balances the slight bitterness of the dandelion, creating a unique flavor profile. I love how simple ingredients can yield such a special treat. Also, soaking the dates in warm water for a few minutes makes them softer and easier to blend.

Another tip I discovered is to roll the balls in crushed nuts or coconut for added texture and flavor. Not only do they enhance the taste, but they give a beautiful finish that makes these snacks even more enticing. Once you try these, you'll want to keep them in your fridge for a quick energy boost!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Natural sweetness from dates without added sugars
Earthy flavor from dandelion greens that makes them special
Easy to make and perfect for on-the-go snacking

Understanding Dandelion Greens

Dandelion greens might seem unconventional, but they provide an earthy flavor that elevates these date balls. When selecting dandelion greens, look for bright green, tender leaves without any browning or wilting. The more vibrant the leaves, the better the taste and nutritional value. Dandelion is rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, making it a fantastic addition to your diet, particularly when you're seeking healthy snacks.

To incorporate dandelion greens fully, you might consider briefly blanching them in boiling water for about 30 seconds. This reduces bitterness and makes them easier to blend. However, for this recipe, using raw leaves contributes to a more robust flavor profile and maintains their nutrient density. I recommend tasting a leaf raw to gauge its bitterness before deciding on blanched versus raw.

Choosing and Preparing Dates

Using Medjool dates is crucial for achieving the right texture and sweetness. Their natural caramel-like flavor beautifully complements the dandelion greens. When selecting dates, ensure they are plump, moist, and free from any cracks. If your dates are a bit dry, soaking them for around 5 minutes, as stated in the recipe, will restore moisture and make them easier to blend into a smooth mixture.

While Medjool dates are preferred, other date varieties like Deglet Noor can be used, though they might not yield the same level of sweetness and moisture. If you prefer a less sugary option, consider using half the amount of dates and substituting some with unsweetened applesauce to maintain moisture without overpowering sweetness.

Serving and Storing Your Date Balls

Once chilled, these Dreamy Dandelion Date Balls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container to prevent sticking. Freezing is also an option; simply place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight or for about 30 minutes at room temperature.

These date balls are versatile! Consider rolling them in crushed nuts or seeds instead of coconut for added texture and visual appeal. For a flavor twist, you could mix in spices like cinnamon or cardamom, or even a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey version. The options are endless and allow you to personalize this recipe to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
1/2 cup dandelion greens, chopped
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup shredded coconut
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Feel free to mix in or substitute with your favorite nuts or seeds!

Steps

Prepare the Dates

Soak the Medjool dates in warm water for about 5 minutes to make them softer. Drain and place in a food processor.

Blend the Ingredients

Add chopped dandelion greens, walnuts, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the food processor. Blend until a sticky mixture forms.

Form the Balls

Use your hands to scoop and roll the mixture into small balls, about the size of a tablespoon.

Coat and Chill

Roll the balls in shredded coconut if desired. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving.

These can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For extra sweetness, consider adding a tablespoon of maple syrup to the mixture. You can also substitute dandelion greens with spinach if preferred.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your mixture is too dry and crumbly after blending, adding a teaspoon of water or coconut oil can help achieve the desired stickiness. Blend it again briefly after adding to ensure the ingredients incorporate smoothly. On the flip side, if the mixture is too wet and hard to form into balls, try adding a bit more shredded coconut or ground nuts gradually until you reach the right consistency.

Visual cues are essential. You want the mixture to be thick enough to hold its shape when rolled into balls (about the size of a tablespoon), which typically takes about 30 seconds of blending. If it's too loose, you may need to add more dry ingredients, but proceed gradually to avoid altering the flavor too much.

Variations and Flavor Enhancements

For added nutrition and flavor depth, consider mixing in a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseeds into the date mixture. These seeds not only boost omega-3 content but also add a delightful crunch. If you enjoy the taste of spices, a pinch of nutmeg or ginger can bring an interesting twist to the flavor profile, especially during the fall and winter months.

Another delightful enhancement is to incorporate some zest from a lemon or orange, balancing out the sweetness with a citrusy brightness. Zest provides a fresh aroma and vibrant taste that can make your date balls stand out at gatherings. Just be cautious not to overdo it; start with half a teaspoon and adjust according to your taste.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scaled. If you're planning to serve a larger group, simply double or triple the amount of ingredients. Just make sure your food processor is big enough to handle the larger batch, or you can process the mixture in batches to ensure even blending. You’ll want to keep an eye on the mixture’s consistency and adjust if necessary, adding more of the dry ingredients if it becomes too wet.

On the other hand, if you want to make a smaller batch, halving the ingredients works seamlessly. Keep in mind that these date balls are quite addictive, so making extras is always a safe bet! If you find you have too many, you can always freeze a portion for those days when a quick, nutritious snack is needed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap walnuts for almonds or pecans as you like.

→ How long do these date balls last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Are there any vegan-friendly options?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan as it uses all plant-based ingredients.

→ Can I freeze these date balls?

Yes! They freeze well for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge before eating.