Date Pinwheel Refrigerator Cookies

Prep: 30 min Cuisine: American

Creamy, sweet date pinwheel cookies with a rich, cinnamon-spiced flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings or a delightful treat with tea or coffee.

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Ingredients

  • 2 c. brown sugar
  • 1 c. margarine
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 tsp. soda
  • 4 c. flour
  • 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp. salt

Instructions

  1. Cream brown sugar and margarine together.
  2. Add eggs to the mixture and beat well.
  3. Combine all dry ingredients: soda, flour, cinnamon, and salt.
  4. Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix thoroughly.
  5. Divide the dough in half and roll each portion out into rectangles.

Tips & Substitutions

For optimal results, ensure your margarine is softened to room temperature for easier creaming with brown sugar. If you prefer a different flavor, try substituting half of the flour with whole wheat flour for added texture. You can also use butter instead of margarine for a richer taste. For added dimension, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or dried fruit alongside the dates.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delightful as a sweet treat with afternoon tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with Instant Hot Cocoa for a cozy dessert experience. For a festive touch, serve them on a platter alongside Herbed Waldorf Salad for a unique appetizer-spread pairing. You can also drizzle some melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgent treat.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftover Date Pinwheel Refrigerator Cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months. If freezing, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Date Pinwheel Refrigerator Cookies contains roughly 1694 calories, with 32g protein, 372g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (79% of the Daily Value), protein (63% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 606mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).

1694 kcal 85% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 31.6g 63% DV
Total Fat 8.9g 11% DV
Carbs 372.1g 100% DV
Fiber 7.5g 27% DV
Sugar 117.4g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 606.4mg 26% DV
Potassium 841.6mg 18% DV
Cholesterol 161.6mg 54% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 55.8mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 0.5mg 1% DV
Calcium 305.2mg 23% DV
Iron 14.2mg 79% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 substitute granulated sugar for brown sugar, but the flavor and moisture content may differ. Brown sugar adds a deeper flavor and moisture, making the cookies chewier. If you use granulated sugar, consider adding a tablespoon of molasses to mimic the flavor of brown sugar.

How thick should I roll the dough for the pinwheels?

Aim for about 1/4 inch thickness when rolling out the dough. This thickness allows the cookies to hold their shape while baking and ensures a nice balance between chewy and crispy. If the dough is too thick, the center may remain soft while the edges become too crisp.

What can I use instead of dates in this recipe?

If you don't have dates, dried figs or raisins can be excellent substitutes. Both offer a similar sweetness and texture. If using figs, chop them finely to match the consistency of dates. Remember, the flavor profile will change slightly, but they will still be delicious.

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).

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