If you’re looking for a classic no-bake treat that’s rich, nostalgic, and incredibly easy to make, this Date and Nut Roll is sure to become a family favourite.

Made with naturally sweet dates, crunchy nuts, and a soft, chewy texture, this old-fashioned dessert has been passed down through generations for good reason.  This recipe made 37 slices for me but yield will vary depending on how thick you like your slices.

Perfect for the holidays, cookie exchanges, homemade gifts, or an everyday sweet snack, this recipe comes together with just a handful of simple pantry ingredients.

The combination of sweet dates and crunchy nuts creates the perfect balance of flavour and texture in every slice. Rolled in coconut or your favourite coating, this vintage recipe looks as beautiful as it tastes.

Printable Recipe Card with a Full List of Ingredients and Instructions is Located at the Bottom of the Post.

Be sure to read through the entire post so that you don’t miss out on any important tips and tricks!

To begin making Date and Nut Roll I dumped some pitted dates onto a cutting board.

Next I chopped up the dates.

Then I poured some coconut oil into a medium size pan over low heat.

Once the dates were chopped I added them to the heated coconut oil in the pot.  I stirred until the dates softened and started to form a paste.  

While the dates were heating, I put some mixed nuts into a small food processor to chop them up fine.

When the dates were ready I added some sesame seeds and the chopped nuts to the pot and gave a good store so the nuts were well incorporated.

Then I dumped the date and nut mixture onto some parchment paper and formed it into 1 or 2 logs.

Next I sprinkled some coconut on the parchment paper and rolled the logs through it to coat them in the coconut.

Once coated in coconut I sealed the rolls in the parchment paper.

Next I put the rolls in the fridge for an hour to cool and set.

Once set, I cut the Date and Nut Roll into slices.  I make mine about 1/4″ thick but you can slice yours to suit your needs and taste.

Old-fashioned recipes like this Date and Nut Roll never go out of style. With its naturally sweet dates, crunchy nuts, and chewy texture, it’s a delicious dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.

Whether you’re serving it during the holidays, packing it into cookie tins, or enjoying a slice with your afternoon coffee or tea, this recipe is one you’ll reach for again and again. Its make-ahead convenience and long storage life make it perfect for busy seasons and special celebrations alike.

If you love vintage desserts, no-bake treats, and classic family recipes, this Date and Nut Roll deserves a spot in your recipe collection. It’s a simple dessert that delivers big flavour with very little effort.

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PRINTABLE VERSION OF THE RECIPE CAN BE FOUND AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PAGE

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make this Date and Nut Roll:

• 500g pitted dates
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 3/4 cup mixed nuts
• 1/3 cup unsweetened coconut

How to Make Date and Nut Roll:

1. Chop up the dates.
2. Put coconut oil in a medium size pot over low heat.
3. Add the chopped dates and stir until breaking up and forming a paste.
4. While dates softening put nuts in a small food processor to chop fine.
5. Once dates softened remove from heat and stir in the chopped nuts and sesame seeds.
6. With your hands roll the date mixture into 1 or 2 logs on top of some parchment paper.
7. Sprinkle the coconut on top of the parchment paper and roll the logs through it to coat.
8. Wrap the rolls in the parchment paper and place in the fridge to cool and set.
9. Once cooled cut into discs.
10. Serve and enjoy!

FAQS:

What should I serve with date and nut roll?

Date and Nut Roll is a rich, chewy treat that pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages and simple accompaniments. Whether you’re serving it for the holidays, at a brunch, or as an afternoon snack, these pairings complement its naturally sweet flavor.

• Coffee – A hot cup of coffee balances the sweetness and makes Date and Nut Roll an excellent afternoon treat.
• Tea – Black tea, Earl Grey, chai, or spiced herbal teas pair wonderfully with the rich date flavor.
• Hot Chocolate – A cozy choice during the holiday season that’s perfect for both kids and adults.
• Vanilla Ice Cream – Serve slices alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an easy yet elegant dessert.
• Whipped Cream – A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a light, creamy contrast.
• Fresh Fruit – Grapes, strawberries, raspberries, orange slices, or apple slices add freshness and help balance the richness.
• Cheese Board – Mild cheeses like Brie, cream cheese, or goat cheese pair surprisingly well with the sweet dates and crunchy nuts.
• Holiday Cookie Tray – Add Date and Nut Roll to a dessert platter with gluten free shortbread, butter cookies, fudge, and chocolate treats for a beautiful assortment.
• Mixed Nuts – Serve with roasted almonds, pecans, walnuts, or pistachios for extra crunch and complementary flavors.
• After-Dinner Dessert – Enjoy a few slices with coffee or espresso as a simple finish to a holiday meal or special dinner.

Date and Nut Roll is delicious served chilled or at room temperature, making it an easy make-ahead dessert that’s perfect for entertaining, gifting, or enjoying whenever you’re craving a classic homemade sweet.

What substitutions can I make in date and nut roll?

This classic Date and Nut Roll recipe is easy to customize using ingredients you may already have on hand. Here are a few simple substitutions that work well.

• Dates: Medjool dates are the best choice because they’re soft and naturally sweet, but Deglet Noor dates also work. If using drier dates, soak them in warm water for 10–15 minutes before chopping.
• Nuts: Swap the walnuts for pecans, almonds, hazelnuts, pistachios, or a combination of your favorite nuts. For a nut-free version, use roasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
• Coconut Coating: If you don’t have shredded coconut, roll the log in finely chopped nuts, graham cracker crumbs, crushed vanilla wafers, powdered sugar, or leave it plain.
• Vanilla Extract: Add vanilla or almond extract for a richer nutty flavour. Since almond extract is stronger, use about half the amount.
• Flavor Additions: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin pie spice for extra warmth and holiday flavor.
• Dried Fruit: Mix in chopped dried cranberries, raisins, dried cherries, or apricots to add more texture and fruity sweetness.
• Chocolate: Stir in mini chocolate chips or drizzle the finished log with melted dark or white chocolate for an extra-special treat.

These simple substitutions make it easy to customize your Date and Nut Roll while keeping the chewy texture and classic old-fashioned flavour everyone loves.

How do I store date and nut roll?

Proper storage helps keep your Date and Nut Roll fresh, chewy, and delicious for days. Since it’s a no-bake dessert, it’s easy to make ahead and store until you’re ready to serve.

At Room Temperature

If your kitchen is cool, wrap the Date and Nut Roll tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for 2 to 3 days.

In the Refrigerator

For longer storage, refrigerate the wrapped log or place it in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 2 weeks. Chilling also makes it easier to slice into neat rounds.

In the Freezer

Date and Nut Roll freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.

How to Thaw

Transfer the frozen Date and Nut Roll to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. You can also let it sit at room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes before slicing and serving.

Storage Tips

• Keep the roll tightly wrapped to prevent it from drying out.
• Slice only what you need and store the remaining log whole to help maintain its freshness.
• If stacking slices, place a piece of parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Serve chilled for firmer slices or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes if you prefer a softer, chewier texture.