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–+ servings
Date roll
The Date Roll is a no-bake, vintage dessert that combines marshmallows, chopped dates, nuts, and crushed graham crackers, rolled together with cream into a sweet, chewy log. Chilled overnight and sliced for serving, it's a nostalgic favorite from mid-century American kitchens. Its simplicity, pantry-friendly ingredients, and creamy-crunchy texture have kept it beloved across generations. It's perfect for holidays or whenever you need a quick yet comforting treat.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chill Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10 slices
Calories 285 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 14 marshmallows (cut into small pieces)
  • ½ cup dates (chopped )
  • 1 cup nuts (chopped, pecans or walnuts)
  • 12 graham crackers (crushed)
  • ⅓ cup cream (or top milk)
  • whipped cream (for serving)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prep Ingredients

  • Cut marshmallows into small pieces. Chop dates and nuts. Crush graham crackers finely.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, combine marshmallows, dates, nuts, and crushed graham crackers.

Step 3: Moisten Mixture

  • Add ⅓ cup cream or top milk. Mix until ingredients are well moistened and combined.

Step 4: Form and Roll

  • Press mixture into a roll shape. Roll in additional cracker crumbs if desired.

Step 5: Wrap and Chill

  • Wrap the roll tightly in waxed paper. Refrigerate overnight in the icebox (or fridge).

Step 6: Serve

  • Unwrap and slice into ½-inch pieces. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips

  • Add chopped dried apricots or cherries for extra fruit flavor.
  • Replace nuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
  • Roll the log in coconut flakes instead of cracker crumbs.
  • Add a splash of vanilla to the cream for extra aroma.
  • Use chocolate graham crackers for a richer taste.
  • Chill the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes before forming the roll to make shaping easier.
  • Serve slices partially frozen for a firmer, ice-cream-like treat.
  • Add orange zest for a citrus twist.
  • Substitute whipped cream with whipped coconut cream for dairy-free.

Nutrition

Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 3gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 210mgFiber: 2gSugar: 28gVitamin A: 90IUVitamin C: 0.4mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg
Keyword classic recipe, Dates, heirloom recipe, holiday treat, marshmallow roll, no-bake recipe, retro sweets, vintage dessert
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