Date Balls

MMMH I love Christmas baking. I actually like the planning, creating, baking part more than the eating part. Seriously. Maybe b/c every time I eat one I have Dietitian-induced guilt. It's almost more of a pleasure to make and give away- or to sit and watch Mark devour the treats and make happy noises. When I eat them, I hear noises too- a noise like a balloon expanding.

In the spirit of Christmas goodies- I thought I would share a favorite. This recipe has been around awhile. These date balls are made by my Mema and my Momma, and now me :)

Yes these are the real ingredients. Butter, sugar....sigh. Good thing Christmas comes once a year!

Date Balls

2 sticks of butter

1c sugar

1 c brown sugar

2 tsp vanilla

1 # chopped dates (I buy the prechopped ones- no need to be a martyr)

Melt butter in a heavy pot. Think LOW and SLOW. Stir in sugars, vanilla and dates. Melt LOW and SLOW until gooey perfection is reached. No, I don't know what temperature the sugar should be. Make them every year and you will just know.

Remove from heat.

Add 2 c chopped pecans (preferably from Georgia) and 4 c Rice Krispies. Stir. Let cool in fridge about 20-30 mins until cool enough to handle.

Add powdered sugar to gallon zip lock bag. Use teaspoon to help you roll krispies into 1" balls. Drop into powdered sugar and shake.

Save in air tight container.

Enjoy!!!!!