This Date Nut Roll brings me directly back to my childhood. I remember watching my grandpa roll this on the kitchen counter every holiday when we visited.
Crushed graham crackers, marshmallows, dates, pecans, and a splash of cream: none of these ingredients are remarkable on their own, but when combined they become something special.
Date Nut Roll
I can’t recall another occasion for which my grandpa ever worked in the kitchen. However, making the Date Nut Roll was his domain every Christmas. He passed away when I was just ten years old and I hadn’t thought of his Date Nut Roll in years.
When I found this recipe last year and made it for the first time as an adult, it was like I was standing in my grandparents’ kitchen once again.
Some food memories stick with us more than others, and I am so glad I have this one to pass on to my boys.
Date Nut Roll Recipe
- Place the graham cracker crumbs, marshmallows, dates, and pecans in a mixing bowl and toss to coat everything in the crumbs.
- Slowly add the cream, a couple of tablespoons at a time, stirring to combine. Add liquid just until the mixture is wet enough to hold together when you press it with a spoon.
- Spread two large sheets of parchment or wax paper on the counter and divide the mixture on top of them. Press it into a log with your hands and sprinkle lightly with the remaining crumbs to coat all around.
- Roll it tightly in the paper, smoothing the shape as you go. Twist the ends tightly and chill until firm, at least 2-6 hours. Slice into pieces with a very sharp knife. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
I’m all about easy no-bake treats for some of my holiday treat-making. As much as I love cookies and fancier holiday desserts, sometimes it’s just plain fun to pull together a whole bunch of delicious treats in very little time.
With just a few of these options, you can have platters of Christmas goodies at your fingertips to deliver to friends or share at a party.
I’m not exaggerating when I say this Peanut Butter Fudge is one of the best fudges I’ve ever tasted. Rich, creamy, over-the-top fudge that is so easy to make, you might laugh.
No-Bake Cookies have met their match with these Chocolate Peanut Butter Coconut Bites. It doesn’t get much easier than just stirring everything together and pouring it into a pan.
Chocolate Peanut Butter No-Bake Ritz Cookies are the sweet, salty, chocolatey snack you need in your life. With zero baking required and just three ingredients–chocolate, Ritz crackers, and peanut butter–they’re a perfect last-minute addition to your holiday cookie tray or party menu.
Grandpa’s Date Nut Roll
Ingredients
- 12 full size graham crackers pulsed into crumbs in the blender or food processor, reserve 2 tablespoons for coating
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 2 cups finely chopped dates
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
- ½ – 2/3 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Place the graham cracker crumbs, marshmallows, dates, and pecans in a mixing bowl and toss to coat everything in the crumbs. Slowly add the cream, a couple tablespoons at a time, stirring to combine. Add liquid just until the mixture is wet enough to hold together when you press it with a spoon.
- Spread two large sheets of parchment or wax paper on the counter and divide the mixture on top of them. Press it into a log with your hands and sprinkle lightly with the remaining crumbs to coat all around. Roll it tightly in the paper, smoothing the shape as you go. Twist the ends tightly and chill until firm, at least 2-6 hours. Slice into pieces with a very sharp knife. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy!
{originally published 9/18/14 – recipe notes updated 11/10/22}
Jackie says
Hi Mary. This is so wonderful. I have searched for over 40 years to find this recipe. My mother made this every Christmas. She passed away when I was 14 so I never got the recipe. It brings back such great memories. Thank you for being such a Blessing! Merry Christmas to you & yours.
Mary Younkin says
Oh Jackie, this makes my heart so happy. This is one of those recipes that I know isn’t for everyone but your comment is exactly why I share it. Enjoy sharing your memories with your family.
Sue says
Hi Mary , thanks for posting the date roll recipe. It is the only sweet my mom ever made at Christmas. Not sure if I can get to the recipe, not real good on computer. Brings back so many memories.
Mary Younkin says
The recipe is right here so you should be good, Sue.
Phyllis says
What a delight finding this recipe. So similar to the one my Mamaw made each Christmas. Instead of dates (which I dearly love), she used raisins and chopped maraschino cherries. The rest of the recipe is the same. Very sweet, so a small piece goes a long way. But, a delightful-flavored nostalgic Christmas treat. Thank you. Merry Christmas.
Mary Younkin says
I’m so glad it’s a favorite memory for you as well, Phyllis.
Suzanne Sexton says
Thank you for posting this. My grandmother made a very similar date role when I was a child (I’m 67), but there was no recipe. Fond memories! Thanks again!!!
Mary Younkin says
You are welcome, Suzanne! I’m so glad you’ve been enjoying the date roll. I also have some fond memories associated with this recipe. Enjoy!
Karen Hooper says
My mom made this recipe all the time at Christmas. Hers was a little different. It had dates, raisins , marshmallows , pecans also the graham crackers. But instead of cream she added a can of eagle brand milk. Combined all, form into a log then roll in graham crackers. Was in foil then refrigerated. Very rich but delicious. It was called something like Shilalie roll. Thanks for the memory.
Mary Younkin says
You are welcome, Karen. I’m glad the date nut roll could bring back memories!
Marilyn Drechsler says
My Mom made this date nut roll every Christmas. She passed away 23 years ago and I haven’t had it since. I’m going to make it this year, it looks exactly like my Moms can’t wait to try it. Thank you for this recipe.
Mary Younkin says
I love hearing these memories. I hope you love the recipe too!