Chinese Icicles(Cookies)
Chinese Icicles are sweet, crunchy cookies made with crushed chow mein noodles, butter, and vanilla, offering a delightful combination of crispy texture and rich flavor. Perfect for festive occasions or as a nostalgic treat, these cookies are quick to prepare and yield a large batch suitable for sharing.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Using high speed of an electric mixer, cream butter, sugar, and vanilla until soft and creamy.
- Sift together salt and flour; gradually add to the butter mixture.
- Blend well on low speed.
- Add crushed chow mein noodles, stirring in by hand.
- Chill until firm.
- Pinch off small pieces of dough and shape into fingers.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- Cool and dust with powdered sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a unique twist, consider substituting the chow mein noodles with crushed pretzels for added crunch. You can also replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Make sure to chill the dough long enough to firm up, making shaping easier. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, increase the sugar slightly or drizzle melted chocolate on top before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These Chinese Icicles pair beautifully with a cup of green tea or can be served alongside a platter of Chinese Slaw for a delightful contrast. They also make a great addition to a dessert table featuring various Chinese recipes. For a festive touch, dust with extra powdered sugar before serving to enhance their appearance.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Icicles(Cookies) contains roughly 942 calories, with 14g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (34% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 6g 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 a different type of noodle for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of noodles. While chow mein noodles provide a specific texture and flavor, you can try using crispy rice noodles or even crushed cornflakes for a different crunch. Just ensure they are unsweetened to maintain the balance of flavors.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be lightly golden on the edges and firm to the touch when they are done baking. Since they are not meant to be overly browned, keep an eye on them during the last few minutes. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just ensure it is tightly wrapped to prevent drying out. When you're ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to make it easier to shape.
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).