This classic homemade candy combines the rich, chewy sweetness of dates with a crisp nut crunch, bound together by a simple sugar syrup. The unique rolling technique in a damp towel creates a dense, fudgy texture that is impossible to achieve with baking alone. It’s a nostalgic treat that feels both rustic and elegant, perfect for holiday gift boxes or as a sophisticated end to a heavy meal. The natural sugars from the dates provide a deep, caramel-like flavor profile, while the nuts add essential richness. Easy to make with pantry staples, this recipe yields a addictive, melt-in-your-mouth confection that tastes just like grandmaâÂÂs kitchen.
Mom’S Nut & Date Candy
Description
This classic homemade candy combines the rich, chewy sweetness of dates with a crisp nut crunch, bound together by a simple sugar syrup. The unique rolling technique in a damp towel creates a dense, fudgy texture that is impossible to achieve with baking alone. It&# 226;ÂÂs a nostalgic treat that feels both rustic and elegant, perfect for holiday gift boxes or as a sophisticated end to a heavy meal. The natural sugars from the dates provide a deep, caramel-like flavor profile, while the nuts add essential richness. Easy to make with pantry staples, this recipe yields a addictive, melt-in-your-mouth confection that tastes just like grandmaâÂÂs kitchen.Ingredients
Directions
-
Combine sugar, water, and Karo syrup in a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
-
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
-
Cook the syrup until it reaches the soft-ball stage (235ðF/112ðC), stopping before it gets harder.
-
Remove from heat and let the syrup cool slightly.
-
Beat the finely chopped dates into the syrup until they disintegrate and the mixture thickens.
-
Beat in the finely chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
-
Wet a dish towel in cold water and wring it out so it is damp but not dripping.
-
Spoon the candy mixture into piles along the middle of the damp towel.
-
Fold the towel over the candy and roll it up tightly.
-
Press and roll the towel firmly and constantly to shape the candy into a log.
-
Leave the rolled candy in the towel to cool and harden completely.
-
Unroll the towel and slice the hardened candy into approximately 1/4-inch pieces.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 392.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 39.0g60%
- Saturated Fat 3.7g19%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1.2mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 8.2g3%
- Dietary Fiber 4.0g16%
- Sugars 1.6g
- Protein 9.1g19%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For best results, use Medjool dates for a softer, sweeter texture. Ensure dates are pitted before chopping.
Walnuts and pecans are traditional choices for the nuts, but almonds or cashews work well too. Toasting the nuts before chopping adds extra flavor.
If you don't have Karo syrup, you can substitute with light corn syrup or agave nectar.
The damp towel technique is crucial for compressing the candy and giving it its characteristic dense, fudgy texture. Do not skip this step.
Optional: Roll the sliced candies in shredded coconut, powdered sugar, or additional chopped nuts for added texture and visual appeal. The original recipe notes that "Mom never did," but it is a popular variation.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. The candy may soften in humid weather.
