Trisha Kruse, an administrative assistant, created quick, easy, no-bake date-nut balls to fill that special niche in your holiday repertoire.

Makes 16 cookies

ACTIVE TIME: 25 minutes

TOTAL TIME: 55 minutes

EASE OF PREPARATION: Easy

2 cups bran flakes cereal
3/4 cup whole pitted dates
1/2 cup pecans, toasted
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
2 teaspoons brandy, orange liqueur or orange juice
1/2 cup finely chopped nuts, date sugar, coconut or toasted wheat germ

1. Place cereal, dates and pecans in a food processor and process until finely chopped. Add honey, cream cheese and brandy (or orange liqueur or orange juice) and pulse until a stiff dough forms.
2. Scoop tablespoon-size portions and shape with greased hands into balls. Roll each ball in chopped nuts (or date sugar or coconut or wheat germ). Place on wax paper. Let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving or storing.

NUTRITION INFORMATION: Per cookie: 104 calories; 6 g fat (1 g sat, 3 g mono); 2 mg cholesterol; 14 g carbohydrate; 1 g protein; 2 g fiber; 42 mg sodium; 111 mg potassium.
1 Carbohydrate Serving
Exchanges: 1 other carbohydrate, 1 fat

MAKE AHEAD TIP: Store in an airtight container, separating balls with layers of wax paper, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.