Caramel Nut Slices(Refrigerator Cookies)
Sweet caramel nut slices with a buttery, chewy texture and crunchy nuts, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings or sharing at gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix well the shortening, brown sugar, and eggs.
- Sift together the flour, salt, and soda.
- Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Add chopped nuts to the mixture.
- Shape the dough into two rolls, each about 2 inches across.
- Chill the rolls until firm.
- Cut the chilled dough into 1/8-inch thick slices.
- Place slices on lightly greased baking sheets.
- Bake in a 350°F oven until lightly browned on the bottom, about 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with butter. If you want a crunchier texture, try using toasted nuts. Ensure the dough is thoroughly chilled to make slicing easier. You can also experiment with different nuts like pecans or walnuts to customize the flavor. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to mix in chocolate chips or dried fruits if desired.
Serving Suggestions
These caramel nut slices are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. Consider presenting them on a platter with other cookies such as Coconut Bar Cookies for a varied dessert experience at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sliced cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked dough rolls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil; they can last up to three months. To bake from frozen, simply slice and bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramel Nut Slices(Refrigerator Cookies) contains roughly 1706 calories, with 16g protein, 257g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2684mg per serving (117% 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 a different type of sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can use granulated sugar, but it will alter the texture slightly. Brown sugar gives the cookies a chewier texture and richer flavor due to its molasses content. If you prefer a less sweet cookie, try using half brown sugar and half granulated sugar.
What if I don't have shortening?
If you don't have shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Keep in mind that using butter will add a different flavor and may result in a slightly softer cookie, while coconut oil will provide a unique taste.
Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can enhance the flavor profile of your caramel nut slices. Aim for about 1 to 1.5 cups of chocolate chips, and fold them in with the nuts for a delicious twist on this classic cookie.
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).