Alverda'S Date Hills
Alverda's Date Hills are sweet, airy meringue cookies filled with chopped dates and walnuts, perfect for teatime or as a delightful snack for those who love nutty, fruity flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the egg whites until very stiff.
- Add the sugar very slowly, beating well.
- Mix the walnuts and dates together and fold into the egg mixture.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F.
- Judge the baking time, but do not overbake.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure the egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when beating. If you prefer a different nut, pecans can be a great substitute for walnuts. For added flavor, consider incorporating a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon into the egg mixture. Monitor the baking closely, as these can quickly go from perfectly chewy to overbaked.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful Date Hills are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven but can also be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making for a perfect afternoon snack. For a festive touch, consider serving them during holiday gatherings alongside Grandma Glahn'S Apple Crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Date Hills in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you plan to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to two weeks. To enjoy them warm, briefly reheat in the microwave for about 10 seconds, or allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Alverda'S Date Hills contains roughly 704 calories, with 25g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other dried fruits instead of dates?
Yes, you can substitute chopped dried apricots or figs for dates. Just ensure that the moisture content is similar, as this will affect the final texture. Experimenting with different fruits can lead to delightful variations in flavor and texture, keeping the recipe fresh and exciting.
What happens if I overbeat the egg whites?
If you accidentally overbeat the egg whites, they can become dry and grainy. This can make it difficult to incorporate the sugar smoothly, leading to a less desirable texture. For the best outcome, beat the egg whites until they reach stiff peaks that hold their shape but maintain a glossy finish.
How can I tell when the Date Hills are done baking?
The Date Hills are done when they are lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Since baking times can vary, start checking them a few minutes before the suggested time. They should not be overly dry, as they will firm up slightly while cooling.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).