Chocolate Mountains
Chocolate Mountains are rich, indulgent cookies featuring a tender crumb and a delightful chocolate flavor. Loaded with chopped nuts and topped with candied cherries, these treats are perfect for special occasions or satisfying a sweet craving. Their hearty size and delicious taste make them a family favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and brown sugar together.
- Add well-beaten eggs and vanilla; mix well.
- Sift together flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with milk.
- Add melted chocolate and melted additional fat to the mixture.
- Stir in chopped nuts.
- Drop teaspoonfuls of dough onto a greased cookie sheet.
- Top each cookie with a candied cherry.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate instead of regular chocolate. You can substitute half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce for a healthier option. Make sure to mix the dough just until combined to avoid tough cookies. Also, if you have any leftover chocolate, melt it and drizzle it over the baked cookies for an extra touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Chocolate Mountains warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They also pair well with a cup of coffee or milk. For a festive touch, consider topping them with whipped cream and fresh berries. These cookies can be part of a dessert platter alongside Easy Sweet Bread and Crazy Peach Pie for a delightful variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Mountains contains roughly 1875 calories, with 21g protein, 249g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (69% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2914mg per serving (127% 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 nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! While chopped nuts add a wonderful crunch, you can substitute with your favorite nuts like pecans or walnuts. If you prefer nut-free cookies, simply omit them or use seeds like sunflower seeds for a similar texture without the allergens.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will help firm it up and make it easier to drop onto the cookie sheet. You can also sprinkle a little flour on your hands when handling the dough to prevent it from sticking.
Can these cookies be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the formed cookie dough balls and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for best results.
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).