Frosted Apricot Jewels
Frosted Apricot Jewels are delicate cookies with a sweet apricot flavor, coconut, and a creamy frosting, perfect for tea parties or holiday treats, appealing to those who love fruity confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Cut in softened butter and cream cheese until the mixture is coarse.
- Add flaked coconut and apricots, mixing well.
- Drop teaspoonfuls of dough onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 18 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Allow cookies to cool.
- Spread each cookie with frosting and top with a pecan half.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can also substitute the apricots with dried cranberries or raisins for a different twist. If you prefer a lighter texture, sift the flour before measuring. Ensure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing. For a fun variation, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies make a delightful addition to a dessert platter and pair beautifully with tea or coffee. Consider serving them alongside other sweet treats like Dunking Platter Cookies for a well-rounded dessert experience. For a festive touch, decorate with colorful sprinkles or serve with a side of whipped cream for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Frosted Apricot Jewels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for 1-2 weeks. If you wish to freeze them, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Frosted Apricot Jewels contains roughly 60 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.
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 apricots instead of dried?
Yes, fresh apricots can be used, but they should be diced and may alter the texture slightly. Ensure to reduce the liquid in the recipe if using fresh to maintain the right dough consistency. Dried apricots provide a chewier texture that complements the cookies well.
How do I make the frosting for the cookies?
To make a simple frosting, mix powdered sugar with a little milk and vanilla extract until you reach the desired consistency. For a creamier frosting, consider adding softened cream cheese. Adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if needed, and spread generously over the cooled cookies.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum to maintain the right texture. Also, check that your baking powder is gluten-free. These adjustments will help you enjoy a gluten-free version of these delicious cookies.
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).