Date Skillet Cookies

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Cuisine: American

Date Skillet Cookies are sweet, chewy treats loaded with chopped dates and nuts, offering a delightful combination of caramel-like sweetness and crunch. Perfect for a casual snack or dessert, they appeal to those who enjoy rich, textured confections with a hint of vanilla and coconut coating.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 stick margarine
  • 2 beaten eggs
  • 2 cups chopped dates
  • 1 cup chopped nuts
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 3 cups Rice Krispies

Instructions

  1. Cook sugar, margarine, eggs, and dates in an electric skillet over medium heat for 15 minutes.
  2. When cooked, stir in chopped nuts, vanilla, and Rice Krispies until well mixed.
  3. Let the mixture cool for about 10 minutes.
  4. Once cooled, roll into small balls with your hands.
  5. Roll each ball in shredded coconut.
  6. Place the coated balls on waxed paper on a cookie sheet.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can also substitute butter for margarine for a creamier texture. If you don't have Rice Krispies, any crispy puffed rice cereal will work. To enhance the flavor, add a pinch of salt or a dash of cinnamon. Keep in mind that the dough can be sticky, so wetting your hands slightly can help when rolling the balls.

Serving Suggestions

These Date Skillet Cookies are perfect as a sweet treat for gatherings or as a quick snack. Serve them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon break. They also pair beautifully with Pecan Praline Ice Cream for a decadent dessert. For added indulgence, drizzle with melted chocolate before serving.

Storage & Reheating

Store 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 on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, place them on a plate and microwave for about 10-15 seconds to retain their softness while enjoying them fresh.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Date Skillet Cookies contains roughly 1741 calories, with 18g protein, 327g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and iron (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 791mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).

1741 kcal 87% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 18.3g 37% DV
Total Fat 39.2g 50% DV
Carbs 326.9g 100% DV
Fiber 12.2g 44% DV
Sugar 114.4g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 790.8mg 34% DV
Potassium 1744.8mg 37% DV
Cholesterol 129mg 43% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 519.3mcg 58% DV
Vitamin C 22.5mg 25% DV
Calcium 209.6mg 16% DV
Iron 7.3mg 40% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Egg

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 different nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any nuts you have on hand, such as walnuts, almonds, or pecans. Each nut adds its unique flavor and texture to the cookies. Just ensure they are chopped to similar sizes for even distribution in the mixture.

What if I don't have an electric skillet?

You can easily make these cookies on the stovetop using a large skillet. Just keep the heat on medium and stir frequently to prevent burning. Once the mixture thickens, follow the same steps to cool and form the balls.

Are these cookies suitable for vegans?

To make these cookies vegan, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or unsweetened applesauce. Use a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil in place of regular margarine. Ensure the nuts and dates are also processed without animal products.

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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