Chewy Chewy Fruit Chews

 

Dried fruits make tasty after meal treats, or a delicious addition to a lunch box or tea tray.  Devoid of refined sugars, they also create a healthy and nutritious addition to a child's Easter basket.  And yes, it's alright if mom or dad take a nibble or two of these delightful candies as they are packing the basket!

Chewy Chewy Fruit Chews

1 cup figs, dried

1 cup apricots, dried

1 cup dates, pitted

1/2 cup cherries, dried

1 cup walnuts

1/2 cup coconut, shredded, unsweetened

1/8 tsp. salt

2 Tbsp. honey (or alternative liquid sweetener)

1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

Using a food mill, grind the dried fruits and 1 cup of walnuts together.  Add the coconut, salt, and honey.  Mix until well combined.  Shape into small, walnut-sized balls.  Then roll in the additional 1/2 cup of walnuts.  Chill until firm.  Then serve or store until ready to serve.

Makes:  4 dozen candies

Crunchy Fruit Balls

 

These delicious little fruit balls are filled with nutrients and fiber.  They are fresh and would make a wonderful and healthy addition to any Easter basket!  

Crunchy Fruit Balls

1 cup apricots, dried

1 cup coconut, shredded

3/4 cup walnuts, chopped

1 tsp. lemon rind, grated

1 tsp. lemon juice, fresh

1 Tbsp. orange juice concentrate

2 Tbsp. confectioners' sugar*

Steam the apricots for about 10 minutes.  Then, place in a food mill and mix with nuts and coconut.  Add the lemon and lemon juice, lemon rind, and 2 Tbsp. of the confectioners' sugar.  Form into small balls, then roll in shredded coconut to coat.  Allow fruit balls to dry for several hours on a tray or baking sheet before storing.  

Makes 36 small fruit balls (1 pound)

*May substitute stevia to sweeten (1 packet) and 2 Tbsp. soy milk powder.