Ginger Orange Nut Balls

• 2 (20 ounce) packages gingersnap cookies, finely crushed (about 10 cups crumbs)
• 2 (14 ounce) cans condensed milk
• 2 (7 ounce) packages flaked coconut (2 2/3 cups)
• 1 cup finely chopped walnuts
• 1 cup finely chopped almonds
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup dates, chopped
• 23 cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons grated orange rind
• 12 cup rum (optional)
• 12 cup triple sec (optional) or 12 cup Grand Marnier (optional)
• 2 (7 ounce) packages flaked coconut (for dredging)
• 2 oranges, rind of, grated (for dredging)

1. Use a food processor to finely crush the cookies.
2. In a large mixing bowl combine all ingredients except additional coconut and rind.
3. Chill at least one hour.
4. The mixture should be fairly firm but sticky.
5. Combine dredging ingredients in a shallow plate such as a pie plate.
6. Shape ball batter into 1 inch balls.
7. The easiest way to do this is with a small 2 teaspoon scooper.
8. Roll in additional coconut mixed with rind.
9. Store tightly covered in refrigerator.
10. The flavor of these candies improves after several days.
11. I usually give it at least one week.
12. They can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for several weeks.
13. Variations:.
14. If you want to omit the alcohol you should only use 2 packages of ginger snaps.
15. The balls should sit for 24 hours to let flavors combine.
16. You can use all almonds or all walnuts.
17. Omit the dates and use 2 cups raisins if you prefer.
18. Dredge the balls in additional crushed ginger snaps mixed with confectioners sugar if you prefer.

cookies, condensed milk, coconut, walnuts, almonds, raisins, dates, orange juice, orange rind, rum, triple, coconut, oranges

Taken from www.food.com/recipe/ginger-orange-nut-balls-200146 (may not work)