“I received free samples of California Walnuts mentioned in this post. By posting this recipe, I am entering a recipe contest sponsored by California Walnuts and am eligible to win prizes associated with the contest. I was not compensated for my time.”
One of the perks of working from home has been that my husband and I get to eat lunch together. It’s nice to have a chance to catch up in the middle of the day. Then, later in the afternoon, he usually pops into the kitchen to make a quick snack for us.
Normally, that snack is a mix of nuts and dried fruit and a cup of tea. But, since we’ve been home, I’ve had more time to play in the kitchen, and I’ve been able to mix that up a little. That resulted in these quick Chocolate Walnut Date Bites.
The dates and orange juice give these a sweet flavor. Walnuts add heartiness and the “crunch” and a bit of savoriness we are looking for. Two of these bites are just enough to give us a boost to finish up our afternoon in the office. A bonus is knowing we are eating something good for us, too.
Did you know that a handful of California walnuts are the only nut to provide an excellent source of the plant-based omega-3, ALA (2.5g/oz)? With 4 grams of protein per ounce and 2 grams of fiber per ounce, walnuts are a filling snack that can help satisfy any afternoon craving. You can learn more about the nutritional benefits of California Walnuts at the California Walnut Board.
I love the combination of walnuts, oranges, and dates. I’ve used that combination in other recipes, like a classic Date Nut Bread. They are also delicious on a salad of field greens with a bit of gorgonzola cheese on the side. Dates and oranges add a natural sweetness, and the walnuts add a hearty richness to most dishes.
Whether you are a sweet or savory snacker, California walnuts are a versatile snack and can satisfy any taste preference.
Chocolate Walnut Date Bites
Equipment
- 1 oz. scoop
Ingredients
- 1 – 1/2 cups walnuts divided
- 1 cup old fashioned oats
- 8 oz. dates
- 3 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 2 Tbsp orange juice
- 1 tsp. orange zest
Instructions
- Wash your hands and assemble clean equipment.
- Place all ingredients except 1/2 cup of walnuts in the bowl of a food processor fitted with chopping blade.
- Pulse the ingredients until they are well blended and form a cohesive ball.
- Form into 1 ounce balls using a 1 oz. scoop or a couple of spoons.
- Finely chop the reserved 1/2 cup of walnuts and place in a tray or on a plate.
- Roll each ball into the reserved, chopped walnuts and place on a sheet pan lined with wax paper.
- Let dry at room temperature for ~ 30 minutes. Store in an air-tight container for 4-5 days or wrap tightly and store in the freezer for 2 – 3 months.
