Candied Fruit Drops
Sweet, chewy candied fruit drops featuring dates, cherries, and pineapple, perfect for snacking or sharing at gatherings with rich, fruity flavors and a delightful texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the brown sugar, oleo, eggs, and buttermilk until well combined.
- Sift the flour with baking soda and stir into the wet mixture.
- Add the chopped dates, candied cherries, and candied pineapple to the dough.
- Mix well and chill the dough for 1 hour.
- Drop spoonfuls of the chilled dough onto a baking sheet.
- Bake at 400°F for about 10 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the dough. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Ensure your dough is well-chilled before baking to help the cookies maintain their shape. For a lighter texture, sift the flour before measuring.
Serving Suggestions
These candied fruit drops are delightful served with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for an afternoon snack. They also pair beautifully with the American recipes for a festive dessert platter. Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover candied fruit drops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving. Reheat briefly in a microwave to soften if desired.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Fruit Drops contains roughly 1420 calories, with 33g protein, 306g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (71% of the Daily Value), protein (66% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 14g 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 fresh fruit instead of candied fruit?
While fresh fruit can be used, it may alter the texture and moisture content of the cookies. Candied fruit adds sweetness and a chewy consistency that fresh fruit won't provide. If you do choose fresh fruit, consider reducing other liquid ingredients to maintain the dough's consistency.
How can I make these cookies healthier?
To make these candied fruit drops healthier, you can substitute half of the brown sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Additionally, using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour will increase the fiber content while still providing a delicious cookie.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked candied fruit drops. Place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven.
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).