Date Drops
Date drops are chewy, flavorful cookies packed with dates and nuts, perfect for a sweet snack or dessert that appeals to all ages and tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter in a mixing bowl.
- Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla to the creamed butter and mix well.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, soda, and salt.
- Chop the dates and nuts into small pieces.
- Mix the chopped dates and nuts with the dry ingredients.
- Combine the dry mixture with the wet mixture until well blended.
- Ensure the dough is stiff enough to drop from the tip of a spoon.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a buttered cookie sheet.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 18 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown butter instead of regular butter. If you need a nut-free option, you can substitute the nuts with additional chopped dates or use sunflower seeds. To enhance the sweetness, feel free to add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Make sure not to overmix the dough; it should be just combined for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Date Drops make a delightful treat on their own but can also be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a lovely dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon snacks. Consider serving them at gatherings or as part of a dessert platter with other American recipes like Grandma's Short Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Date Drops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes until they are soft and fragrant again. Avoid microwaving to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date Drops contains roughly 1134 calories, with 7g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2246mg per serving (98% 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 fresh dates instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh dates, but they have a higher moisture content. If you do so, slightly reduce the amount of butter or flour to maintain the right dough consistency. Chop them finely to ensure even distribution in the batter.
What type of nuts work best in this recipe?
Walnuts and pecans are popular choices for Date Drops, providing a nice contrast to the sweetness of the dates. However, feel free to experiment with almonds or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they are chopped into small pieces for even mixing.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
To make Date Drops vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Use about 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg. This will help achieve a similar texture while keeping the recipe plant-based.
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).