Bourbon Cookies

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Bourbon Cookies are rich, flavorful treats combining the warm spices of cinnamon and the depth of bourbon with a variety of dried fruits and pecans. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a special snack, these cookies offer a delightful mix of sweetness, nuttiness, and a hint of alcohol that appeals to adults and dessert lovers alike.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 cup boiling water
  • 3/4 cup shortening
  • 2 1/2 cups flour
  • 1/2 cup bourbon
  • 4 cups pecan pieces
  • 1/2 pound candied cherries, chopped
  • 1 pound dates, cut up

Instructions

  1. Mix together sugar, eggs, and cinnamon in a bowl.
  2. Dissolve baking soda in boiling water and add to the mixture.
  3. Stir in shortening until well combined.
  4. Gradually add flour, mixing well after each addition.
  5. Stir in bourbon, pecan pieces, chopped candied cherries, chopped dates, and golden raisins.
  6. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a greased cookie sheet.
  7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For a different flavor profile, consider substituting half of the bourbon with vanilla extract. If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup. Ensure to mix the dough just until combined to keep the cookies tender. For added texture, try incorporating a mix of nuts, similar to what you would find in American recipes like the Coconut Almond Carrot Ring.

Serving Suggestions

These bourbon cookies are delightful on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. Pair them with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a perfect afternoon snack. For a festive touch, serve alongside a slice of Easy Rice Pudding(Microwave) during holiday gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months. To enjoy them warm, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Bourbon Cookies contains roughly 153 calories, with 3g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.

153 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.2g 6% DV
Total Fat 1.2g 2% DV
Carbs 33.2g 12% DV
Fiber 1.6g 6% DV
Sugar 10.5g 21% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 216.8mg 9% DV
Potassium 148.1mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 0.7mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.1mcg
Vitamin C 1.9mg 2% DV
Calcium 18.2mg 1% DV
Iron 1.4mg 8% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten 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 different nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds based on your preference. Just keep in mind that different nuts may alter the flavor and texture slightly, so choose ones that you enjoy. A mix of nuts can also provide a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall taste.

How can I make these cookies softer?

To achieve softer cookies, consider reducing the baking time slightly or adding an extra egg yolk to your dough. Another tip is to ensure you don’t overmix the dough, as this can lead to a denser texture. Keeping an eye on them while baking will help achieve that perfect chewy consistency.

Can I omit the candied cherries?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of candied cherries, you can replace them with dried cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and a chewy texture. Alternatively, you can simply increase the amount of chopped dates or add another type of dried fruit you enjoy.

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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