Fruit Stick Cookies
Fruit Stick Cookies are sweet, chewy treats packed with raisins and nuts, perfect for snacking or sharing at gatherings. They offer rich flavors with cinnamon and cloves.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together to form a very stiff dough, similar to bread dough.
- Divide the dough into finger-sized rolls and press them down on the baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F until done, about 10 to 12 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsalted butter. If you're looking for a healthier option, replace some of the white sugar with applesauce or mashed bananas. Ensure your dough is very stiff, as this will help maintain the shape of the cookies while baking. Also, soaking the raisins in warm water for a few minutes can enhance their texture and sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own but can be served alongside a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea. For a festive touch, consider pairing them with a slice of Molasses Cake With Lemon Sauce (Heritage) for a sweet dessert spread. They also make great gifts when packed in decorative boxes during the holiday season.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Fruit Stick Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their freshness, you can also freeze them by wrapping individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to warm them slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Stick Cookies contains roughly 3075 calories, with 50g protein, 522g carbohydrates, and 89g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (136% of the Daily Value), protein (100% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 648mg per serving (28% 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 substitute the nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you have nut allergies or simply prefer not to use nuts, you can replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Alternatively, you can increase the amount of raisins or even add chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, you can add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. It's important to avoid adding too much flour, as this can make the cookies tough.
How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are lightly golden around the edges and firm to the touch. They may seem slightly soft in the center, but they will continue to firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.
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).