Apple Date Drops
Chewy, flavorful apple date cookies with cinnamon and nuts, perfect for a comforting snack or dessert that combines fruitiness and crunch in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter or margarine and sugar well.
- Add egg and mix thoroughly.
- Stir in 1 cup of applesauce.
- Gradually add sifted dry ingredients: flour, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon.
- Fold in chopped dates and pecans.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option. You can also substitute the pecans with walnuts or omit nuts altogether for a nut-free version. Ensure the butter is softened for easier creaming with sugar. Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can also help the cookies hold their shape better while baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Apple Date Drops are delightful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect afternoon snack. For a fun dessert platter, consider serving them alongside Edie B.'S Chocolate Mousse or Oatmeal Almond Cookie for a variety of textures and flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Apple Date Drops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple Date Drops contains roughly 1400 calories, with 9g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 95g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value) and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
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 apples instead of applesauce?
Yes, you can use fresh apples! Just peel and finely chop them, then measure out one cup. Keep in mind that fresh apples will add more texture to the cookies, but they may also require a little extra baking time to ensure they cook through.
What can I use instead of butter?
You can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine if you're looking for a dairy-free option. Both alternatives will maintain the moisture and richness of the cookies, though the flavor may vary slightly depending on your choice.
How can I make these cookies chewier?
To achieve a chewier texture, try adding an extra egg yolk to the dough. Additionally, avoid overbaking the cookies; they should be set but still soft in the center when you take them out of the oven. Letting them rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack will also help enhance their chewiness.
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).