Date Refrigerator Pinwheels
Sweet and nutty refrigerator pinwheels with a date filling, perfect for satisfying snack cravings or festive treats, appealing to those who love rich, chewy desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine dates, sugar, and water in a saucepan.
- Cook over low heat until thick, about 10 minutes.
- Add nuts and let cool.
- Work shortening with a spoon until fluffy and creamy.
- Gradually add brown sugar while continuing to work.
- Add the well-beaten eggs and mix well.
- Sift together the flour, salt, and baking powder, then add to the mixture and mix well.
- Cover and chill the mixture.
- Divide the chilled mixture into two parts and roll each into a rectangle slightly less than 1/4-inch thick.
- Spread each rectangle with some of the date filling and roll up as for a jelly roll into two long rolls.
- Wrap in wax paper and chill overnight if possible.
- Cut into slices about 1/4-inch thick with a sharp knife.
- Arrange on a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 10 to 12 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using pecans or walnuts in place of the nuts. If you prefer a healthier option, try substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly, as this helps in rolling it out without sticking. You can also experiment by adding spices like cinnamon to the date filling for added warmth.
Serving Suggestions
These Date Refrigerator Pinwheels are perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet addition to a dessert platter. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a delightful brunch spread, serve alongside Peach Yogurt Scones and Slow Cooked Sweet Potato Casserole. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked rolls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date Refrigerator Pinwheels contains roughly 2550 calories, with 27g protein, 330g carbohydrates, and 137g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (63% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), and protein (54% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 921mg per serving (40% 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 other dried fruits instead of dates?
Absolutely! While dates provide a unique sweetness and texture, you can substitute with dried figs, apricots, or raisins. Just be mindful that different fruits may alter the overall flavor and moisture content, so you might need to adjust sugar levels accordingly.
Is it necessary to chill the dough overnight?
Chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to roll out and cut. While overnight chilling is ideal, you can chill it for a minimum of 2 hours if you're short on time. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your pinwheels.
Can I make these pinwheels gluten-free?
Yes, you can make gluten-free pinwheels by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, especially baking powder and shortening, are gluten-free to ensure a safe and delicious treat.
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).