Applesauce Date Cookies
Chewy applesauce date cookies combine warm spices, chopped nuts, and sweet dates for a wholesome treat perfect for snack time or dessert lovers seeking a comforting flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift all dry ingredients together: flour, cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Mix half of the flour mixture with chopped nuts and dates, coating them well.
- In a separate bowl, blend together shortening, sugar, egg, and applesauce.
- Gradually blend the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients until combined.
- Fold in the coated nuts and dates.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a greased baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, add an extra 1/4 cup of sugar or honey. You can also experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds. For a vegan version, replace the egg with a flaxseed egg and use a plant-based shortening.
Serving Suggestions
These applesauce date cookies are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist. For a complete snack, serve alongside a fruit platter or a slice of Amish Cheese Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Applesauce Date Cookies contains roughly 202 calories, with 3g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.
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 dates instead of dried?
Fresh dates can be used, but they will add more moisture to the cookies. If you choose fresh dates, consider reducing the applesauce slightly to maintain the right dough consistency.
What can I substitute for shortening?
You can substitute shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a richer flavor. Just be aware that butter will add a slight richness and change the texture slightly.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they turn golden brown around the edges and the tops feel set but slightly soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
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).