Fruit Bar Cookies
Fruit Bar Cookies are sweet, chewy treats packed with raisins, dates, and nuts, complemented by warm spices, perfect for snacking or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together and boil for five minutes the sugar, raisins, shortening, and hot water.
- Add spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves) and mix well.
- Allow the mixture to cool to lukewarm.
- Add the beaten egg to the cooled mixture and stir well.
- Sift together the flour, salt, and soda, then add to the mixture.
- Stir until well combined.
- Add chopped dates and chopped nuts to the mixture and mix well.
- Spread the batter in a greased and floured jelly roll pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 to 30 minutes.
- Frost the cooled cookies and cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful cookie, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar for a deeper taste. If you don't have raisins, dried cranberries or apricots can be excellent substitutes. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different nuts like walnuts or pecans. Make sure to cool the mixture adequately before adding the egg to avoid scrambling it.
Serving Suggestions
These Fruit Bar Cookies are delicious on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a fun dessert platter, serve alongside Mini Cheese Biscuits or a slice of Boston Cream Cake. You can also top them with a simple glaze or frosting to elevate their flavor.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy them after freezing, simply thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave for a soft treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Bar Cookies contains roughly 234 calories, with 3g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 flour in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option, though it may result in a denser cookie. If gluten-free, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose blend, but check for proper baking soda ratios.
How can I make these cookies more chewy?
To achieve chewier cookies, try reducing the flour slightly or adding an extra egg yolk. Additionally, underbaking them by a minute or two can enhance their chewiness.
What can I use instead of shortening?
You can replace shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor and texture. Both options will yield delicious results in your 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).