Dates: Both Medjool and Deglet Noor dates work well here. Medjools make the balls softer and fudgier, while Deglet Noors create a slightly firmer, less sweet bite. If your dates seem unusually dry and the mixture won’t hold together when squeezed, blend in a little extra almond butter or peanut butter.
Almond butter: Adds richness and helps bind the mixture together. Peanut butter creates a more pronounced flavor, while cashew butter or sunflower seed butter are great alternatives.
Cinnamon: Brings warmth and enhances the sweetness of the fruit. Swap with pumpkin pie spice, apple pie spice, or a pinch of nutmeg.
Vanilla extract: Adds depth and rounds out the flavors. You can leave it out or replace it with a little orange zest for a brighter flavor.
Salt: A small pinch balances the sweetness and makes these healthy snack balls taste more complete. Fine sea salt or kosher salt both work well.
