Goofballs

Southern Recipe Posted by Grace Mannon.

There are many words in the English language that could be used to describe me. Quirky is a good one. Efficient would be another. One more, whether I like it or not, is goofy.

I’m not always goofy, but it’s okay–I’ve accepted it. To clarify, I don’t mean physically goofy. I mean that when an awkward situation arises, I can usually be counted on to lighten the mood with a joke or a sarcastic comment. Timely and appropriate silliness is my forte.

You may be wondering why I’m sharing all this. As it just so happens, these lovely little balls of coconut-covered goo are called goofballs. I don’t know why they’ve been given this name, but I do know that they’re marvelous. Hidden in the depths of these sticky, chewy, gooey treats is an unexpected ingredient–dates. They provide sweetness and a lot of qualities reminiscent of caramel. The coating of coconut is a wonderful finishing touch.

If you haven’t tasted a goofball, take it from this goofy girl–you need to do it, and the sooner, the better!

Goofballs
Ingredients:

• 1 cup butter
• 1-1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 cups dates, chopped
• 2 eggs, slightly beaten
• 5 cups crispy rice cereal
• 1 cup coconut

Directions:

1. Melt the butter in a large saucepan.
2. Add the sugar and bring to a boil.
3. Add the dates and cook 5 minutes, or until the dates are cooked down.
4. Cool a bit, then add the eggs slowly.
5. Boil for 2 minutes.
6. Remove from the heat and stir in the cereal until coated.
7. Cool until able to handle and then form balls, roll them in coconut, and cool them completely on wax paper.

Enjoy this southern recipe in this collection of our southern cuisine – let’s gather the best southern food ideas for The Southern Coterie cookbook.