Quick answer: Blend soft dates with oats, almonds and cocoa until the mixture clumps, roll into balls and chill. You can make about 14 date balls in 15 minutes without baking.
Last updated: 14 November 2026
Ingredients (makes about 14)
- 170 g (1 cup) pitted soft Medjool dates
- 50 g (½ cup) rolled oats
- 60 g (½ cup) almonds
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp tahini or peanut butter
- A pinch of salt
- Shredded coconut, crushed pistachios or cocoa to coat
Method
- Process the almonds and oats to a coarse crumb.
- Add the dates, cocoa, tahini and salt and process until the mixture sticks together when pressed.
- If too dry, add 1 teaspoon of water at a time.
- Roll into balls of about 1 tablespoon each.
- Roll in coconut or nuts and chill for 30 minutes.
Variations
- Cinnamon and vanilla instead of cocoa.
- Replace almonds with walnuts or pistachios.
- Add 1 tablespoon of chia or flax seeds.
Storage
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer. Use soft Medjool dates for the best texture. For other uses, see no-bake date bars and more date recipes.
Frequently asked questions
What are date balls made of?
Dates, nuts and oats, often with cocoa, seeds or coconut.
How long do date balls last?
About a week in the fridge, or longer in the freezer.
Why are my date balls too sticky or dry?
If sticky, add a spoon of oats. If dry, add a teaspoon of water or a few more dates.
