As a 2022 State Fair of Texas “Best Sugar-Free Candy” winner, these “Best Date & Pecan Rolls” truly earned their title. They’re sweetened with dried dates and Splenda’s zero-calorie granulated sweetener. Orange zest and vanilla extract give them a wonderful aroma and flavor you will absolutely savor.

This recipe comes from the kitchen of Donna Wyse-Hill.

Donna has won a countless number times at her local fair, the State Fair of Texas, which happens to be the largest fair in the United States, based on total attendance numbers.

We recently caught up with Donna for a Q&A and learned a bit more about this top blue ribbon baker:

BRG:  Best Date & Pecan Rolls. What can you tell me about this winning recipe and why you chose it?

Donna:  I have really come to love dates and figs. And in Texas, PECANS are king.  I try not to eat sugar, so Splenda worked great. I never choose someone’s recipe without making it my own and making tweaks.

BRG:  What do you think your secret to winning was?

Donna:  My nut roll was different.  First, I competed with a sugar free against real sugar entries.  Most of the other entries were white. Mine was brown.

BRG:  Do you have any helpful tips for someone making it on their own?

Donna:  Don’t be afraid of using a candy thermometer.  If the first attempt fails, keep trying. It is science.

 

Donna’s First Baking Contest Was in 1983

BRG:  How long have you been baking and competing at the fair?

Donna:  About 20 years.  I started in 1983 and competed about 15 years and took a break.  Came back with canning a few years ago.

BRG:  What has been your biggest win in baking competitions?

Donna:  In the brownie bakeoff I won first place in both brownie and blondie so basically I competed against myself for best of show.  I won!

BRG:  How many ribbons do you have?

Donna:  Hundreds.  I never counted them.

BRG:  What did you like about baking with Splenda?

Donna:  My brother is diabetic.  I do keto. We can all enjoy the same dessert.  Both my parents were diabetic too.  I love it when I change people’s mind that think a dessert with Splenda won’t taste as good.

BRG:  What do you do for work?

Donna:  I work in a Family Office. Accounting and general office.  I am in my 33rd year with them.

BRG:  Any hobbies besides baking?

Donna:  I love cooking as much as baking.  I have won some big awards and prizes with savory dishes.  $10k from a national Campbell’s Soup recipe contest and other great wins as well. I love to travel.  Have been to 6 continents and lots of cruises.  I am a huge sports fan too.

If you make these best date & pecan rolls–and we highly recommend you do–consider the butter you’re using. Increase the amount (to 1 cup) if you are using a European butter like Kerrygold or Plugra. They are two of Donna’s favorite brands and what she used for her winning entry.