CHERRY-WALNUT BITES

Cherry-Walnut Bites image

Provided by C G

Time 15m

Number Of Ingredients 8

2 c dried sour cherries
8 medjool dates, pitted (i subbed a few barhi dates in w/the medjools)
2/3 c walnut pieces
1 Tbsp fresh orange juice (or 1 tablespoob fresh orange juice + 1 teaspoon orange blossom water)
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground cardamom
6 Tbsp dark chocolate chips (not milk chocolate!)
1/4 c unsweetened shredded coconut, plus more for rolling

Steps:

1. *Note: Be sure to use sour cherries and *not* sweet cherries to maintain the balance of flavors: sweet/tart. Also, I replaced one tablespoon of fresh orange juice with one teaspoon of orange blossom water. If you don't have the latter, go ahead and add two tablespoons of orange juice as indicated in the original recipe.
2. Finely chop dried cherries, dates, and walnuts and combine in a large mixing bowl. Add orange juice, cinnamon, cardamom, chocolate chips, and coconut. Mix together with hands, working into a sticky mass. Mixture should hold together; if necessary, add another chopped date or a little more juice.
3. With clean, slightly wet hands, roll mixture into walnut-shell-size balls. Roll in excess shredded coconut, if desired. Gently place into an airtight container and refrigerate. They will become firmer as they cool.
4. Serve with tea or coffee. Best flavor at room temperature.