This recipe is a fun create-play activity to get kids involved in the kitchen. These are a healthier than usual Halloween treat that are sure to have kids grabbing for them. For more of a sugary treat, use white fondant icing pieces instead of the baking paper and black icing as eyes. If you use regular dates instead of Medjool, then soak them for about 15 minutes in hot water first and drain well before blending.
YOU WILL NEED
12 lollipop sticks or 6 paper straws, halved
12 x 15cm square pieces of white baking paper
12 lengths of string or butcher’s twine
12 pairs of goggle eyes, plus glue if necessary
1. Place the dates, cashews, cacao powder and maple syrup in a food processor and pulse until well blended and it comes together in a sticky lump.
2. With lightly dampened hands, roll the mixture into 12 balls, about 25g each. Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
3. Insert a lollipop stick or paper straw in the centre of each ball. Wrap each one with a piece of baking paper, securing them with string or butcher’s twine. Decorate the front of each one with two goggle eyes. These will keep for up to one week in an airtight container in the fridge.
TIP
Add the finely grated zest of one orange, ½ teaspoon of finely grated ginger or a drop of peppermint essence to the mixture for added flavour if liked.