Fruit Cookies
Fruit Cookies are delightful treats packed with candied cherries, dates, and crunchy pecans. Their rich, sweet flavor combined with the buttery texture makes them perfect for holidays, special occasions, or a satisfying snack. These cookies offer a wonderful mix of chewy and crunchy bites in each mouthful.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream margarine, light brown sugar, and eggs; stir in buttermilk.
- Sift flour and soda together; add to the creamed mixture.
- Fold in chopped pecans, candied cherries, and chopped dates.
- Drop small amounts onto a lightly greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. To add a twist, try replacing half of the pecans with walnuts. Make sure to sift your flour and baking soda to avoid lumps in your dough, resulting in a smoother cookie texture.
Serving Suggestions
These fruit cookies are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a dessert twist. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. They also make a great addition to holiday cookie platters alongside other favorites like Quick Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fruit cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. To reheat, just pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Cookies contains roughly 3279 calories, with 34g protein, 242g carbohydrates, and 259g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (101% of the Daily Value), protein (68% of the Daily Value), and iron (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1310mg per serving (57% 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 different nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts for a different flavor. Just ensure that any nuts you use are chopped to maintain the right texture in the cookie.
What can I use if I don't have candied cherries?
If you don't have candied cherries, you can replace them with dried cranberries or raisins. Both alternatives will provide a nice sweetness and chewy texture to the cookies, making them just as enjoyable.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are lightly golden around the edges and still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them as they bake, especially if you’re using a different oven temperature.
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).