Fruit Drop Cookies
Fruit Drop Cookies are delightful treats combining the sweetness of candied cherries and dates with crunchy pecans, all wrapped in a tender cookie. Perfect for festive occasions or everyday snacking, they offer a rich, fruity flavor and satisfying texture that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine shortening, brown sugar, and eggs; mix well.
- Stir in buttermilk.
- Combine flour, baking soda, and salt; stir into the mixture.
- Stir in broken pecans, candied cherries, and chopped dates.
- Chill the dough for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Drop rounded teaspoonfuls of dough about 2 inches apart onto a lightly greased cookie sheet.
- Place a pecan half on each cookie.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until almost no imprint remains when touched lightly with finger.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider replacing half of the shortening with unsalted butter. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Chilling the dough is essential for better texture, so don't skip that step.
Serving Suggestions
These Fruit Drop Cookies are delightful on their own but also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They make a great addition to holiday cookie platters, especially when combined with other treats like the All Butter Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh, you can also refrigerate them for longer shelf life. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply reheat in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Drop Cookies contains roughly 1583 calories, with 6g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 125g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans add a lovely flavor, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just chop them roughly and mix them in the same way as the pecans.
How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?
To prevent spreading, ensure that the dough is well-chilled before baking. Additionally, make sure your baking soda is fresh, as expired baking soda can affect the rise and structure of the cookies.
Can I freeze these cookies for later?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.
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).