Amber Cookies

Cook: 45 min

Amber Cookies are sweet, chewy treats with orange and coconut flavors, coated in powdered sugar. Perfect for holidays or as a delightful snack for all ages.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. candy orange slices, finely cut with scissors
  • 1 (7 oz.) can flaked coconut
  • 1 tsp. orange juice
  • 2 cans Eagle Brand milk
  • 1 cup finely chopped pecans
  • 1 tsp. vanilla extract
  • Powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients except powdered sugar; mix thoroughly.
  2. Spread the mixture into a lightly greased 10 x 15 x 1/2-inch pan and bake for 45 minutes at 275°F.
  3. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
  4. Use a teaspoon to scoop out cookies while hot.
  5. Form the scooped mixture into balls with fingers.
  6. Let the cookies cool and become firm.
  7. Roll cookies in powdered sugar and place on waxed paper to cool completely.

Tips & Substitutions

For a tropical twist, consider substituting the pecans with walnuts or macadamia nuts. If you're short on time, you can use pre-chopped nuts and a store-bought coconut mix. Ensure the mixture is well combined for even flavor distribution. If you find the cookies too sweet, a sprinkle of sea salt on top can help balance the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

These Amber Cookies make a delightful treat for afternoon tea or as a dessert at parties. Pair them with a creamy dessert like Tropical Fruit Fluff for a refreshing contrast. They also go well with coffee or herbal tea, enhancing their sweet flavor. Consider serving them alongside fresh fruit for a colorful and appealing platter.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Amber Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator where they can last for up to two weeks. To reheat, place them in a warm oven for a few minutes to regain their softness without losing their shape.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Amber Cookies contains roughly 1940 calories, with 19g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 145g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (69% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 19g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

1940 kcal 97% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 18.9g 38% DV
Total Fat 144.6g 100% DV
Carbs 99.6g 36% DV
Fiber 19.4g 69% DV
Sugar 76.6g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 17.8mg 1% DV
Potassium 1106.5mg 24% DV
Cholesterol 0.1mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 13.8mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 20.5mg 23% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 164.3mg 13% DV
Iron 5.4mg 30% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Tree nuts

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 fresh orange slices instead of candy orange slices?

Fresh orange slices can be used, but they will change the texture and moisture of the cookies. If you decide to make this substitution, reduce the amount of liquid ingredients slightly to avoid a soggy mixture. Additionally, you may want to add a bit of sugar to mimic the sweetness of the candy.

What can I do if my cookies don't hold their shape?

If your Amber Cookies are falling apart, it may be due to insufficient cooling time. Let them cool completely to firm up. If they still don't hold, consider adding a bit more coconut or nuts to the mixture to help bind them together. Chilling the mixture before scooping can also help maintain shape.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

This recipe is already gluten-free since it does not contain flour. However, ensure that all ingredients, especially the coconut and any brands of nuts, are certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy these cookies without worrying about gluten sensitivity.

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).

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