Complexion candy, a date, fig and pecan confection
The other day I found myself in a cookie coma. After eating nothing but cookies and homemade candy for several hours straight, my belly hurt and I could barely keep my eyes open. It was a sugar, butter and white flour overload.
Now, I’m not one to pass up a sweet treat, especially this time of year. But sometimes it might be wise for me to cut back just a little so I won’t find myself shopping for a whole new wardrobe in the new year.
Enter complexion candy. “What kind of candy?” you may be asking. I said the same thing when I came across this old Texan recipe. Though upon closer inspection I realized that complexion candy is simply an old-fashioned dried fruit and nut confection under a more colorful name.
I love dates. They’re sticky, crunchy and sweet with such a rich caramelized flavor that it’s hard to believe that they’re a fruit. Yep, dates are nature’s candy. And that’s what’s at the heart of complexion candy, along with figs, raisins, orange zest and pecans.
It’s a snap to make this, as you simply throw all the ingredients into a food processor and whirl away until a smooth paste forms. Then you can either roll it into balls and dip it in coconut or chopped pecans, or you can press it into a pan and cut it into squares after chilling.
The original recipe called for sprinkling the complexion candy with powdered sugar, but I didn’t think it added much, so I skipped that step. You, however, may disagree. But one thing that we can agree on is that complexion candy is a guilt-free sweet. It’s also extremely versatile. For instance, you can sub in other dried fruits if you like, add a bit of ginger and cinnamon for a little spice, use walnuts if you prefer, or if you’re feeling really decadent throw in some chocolate chips or chopped bacon.
If you’re a fan of fig bars or Lara Bars, then this is for you. Now, I would never advocate getting rid of the pralines, the brittles, festive cookie tray, and other holiday treats that always makes the season bright, but you might consider giving complexion candy a try. And you know what? You might just be surprised.
Complexion candy, a date, fig and pecan confection
Ingredients
- 2 cups dates
- 2 cups dried figs
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup roasted pecans
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts, such as pecans, walnuts or pistachios
Instructions
- Place the dates, dried figs, raisins, pecans and orange zest in a food processor and blend until a paste forms. Form into 1-tablespoon-sized balls and dip in shredded coconut and/or chopped nuts. Alternatively, you can press the paste into a pan, chill for an hour and then cut into squares.
- Variations: You can replace the pecans with walnuts or almonds. You can also dip the balls into chopped nuts. For more flavor, try adding a pinch of ginger, cinnamon and clove. To make them even more decadent, you can add chocolate chips or chopped bacon.
What a delightful and simple recipe and a fabulous name for it, too! Thank you for sharing this, Lisa!
Janus–Instead of using dates and figs? It probably wouldn't work but you can give it a try!
Liberty–Aren't they great? You should try the orange zest–it gives it a nice flavor.
Homegrown countrygirl–You're very welcome!
I remember these! Yum!!
In our house they were rolled into a log then sliced. Thanks so for reminding me of this treat and providing the recipe. Sure wish I could remember what it was called back in the day. Maybe just a "fig roll" or a "date roll." Hmmm.
Pete
Wow!!! Dates, figs, and pecans are three of my absolute favorite things. Yum!
I know exactly what you mean about sugar overload!
I am actually craving a green salad with a vinegary dressing right now! I am going to try these first, salads are for summer!
Happy Holidays,
RMW