Blue Ribbon Icebox Cookies(My Favorite Cookies And Easy!)
Chewy, spicy cookies with dates and nuts, perfect for holiday treats or baking enthusiasts seeking rich flavors and easy preparation in advance.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the shortening.
- Add the dark brown sugar and white sugar to the melted shortening.
- Stir in the beaten eggs and vanilla extract.
- Combine the spices: nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves, then add to the mixture.
- Sift together the flour and baking soda, then gradually add to the wet ingredients.
- Stir in the chopped dates and nuts.
- Shape the dough into rolls using waxed paper or Saran Wrap.
- Refrigerate the rolls until needed, keeping indefinitely.
- When ready to bake, slice the rolls into pieces more than 1/4-inch thick.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting half of the flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. You can also replace the shortening with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or use seeds like sunflower seeds as a substitute. Make sure to chill the dough long enough for the flavors to meld, ensuring a delicious outcome.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own but can be served with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a cozy treat. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a festive twist, consider serving them during the holidays alongside Mrs. Doc'S Old Time Egg Custard Pie for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the unbaked dough rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, you can slice and bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blue Ribbon Icebox Cookies(My Favorite Cookies And Easy!) contains roughly 2307 calories, with 5g protein, 356g carbohydrates, and 88g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 16g 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 different spices in the cookie dough?
Absolutely! While nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves offer a warm flavor profile, feel free to experiment with spices like ginger or allspice. Adjust the quantities to your taste preference, and don't hesitate to add chocolate chips or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture.
How thick should I slice the cookie rolls?
For a perfect bake, keep a close eye on the cookies during the last few minutes of baking. If you prefer a softer cookie, take them out of the oven as soon as the edges begin to turn golden.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to a week or even frozen for longer storage. Just ensure that you wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or waxed paper. When you're ready to bake, simply slice and bake directly from the fridge or freezer for a fresh batch of cookies anytime.
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).