Cherry Blinks
Cherry Blinks are crunchy, sweet treats featuring chopped dates and nuts coated in cornflakes, topped with a cherry, perfect for snack time or dessert gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix margarine, sugar, and egg until well combined.
- Stir in milk and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, blend flour, baking powder, soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until incorporated.
- Mix in chopped dates and nuts.
- Drop teaspoonfuls of dough onto crushed cornflakes, ensuring each is coated completely.
- Gently roll the coated dough in cornflakes.
- Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on a greased baking sheet.
- Top each with a piece of candied or maraschino cherry.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until no imprint remains when touched.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half the margarine with unsalted butter. If you want a crunchier texture, increase the amount of chopped nuts. Ensure the cornflakes are fresh and not stale, as they are crucial for the coating. You can also use other dried fruits like raisins or cranberries in place of dates for a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry Blinks are delightful on their own but pair well with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon snack. You can also serve them alongside Strawberries With Vanilla Pudding Dip for a beautiful dessert platter. For a festive touch, arrange them on a dessert tray with other cookies during holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cherry Blinks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Blinks contains roughly 94 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 1g 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 different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts, pecans, or even almonds based on your preference. Just make sure to chop them finely to ensure they mix well with the dough. Each type of nut will add its own unique flavor and texture to the Cherry Blinks.
What can I use instead of margarine?
If you're looking to substitute margarine, unsalted butter is the best option for similar results. For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or a vegan margarine. Just remember that the flavor and texture might slightly change, but the cookies will still be delicious.
How can I make these cookies healthier?
To make Cherry Blinks healthier, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. Additionally, consider reducing the sugar slightly or using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Incorporating more nuts can also increase the nutritional value.
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).