Grandma'S Date Pinwheels
Grandma's Date Pinwheels are delightful rolled cookies filled with sweet date paste, perfect for sharing at family gatherings or holiday celebrations with rich, caramel-like flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chopped dates, sugar, and water in a pan; cook over low heat until thick, about 10 minutes.
- Cream shortening; add brown sugar and well-beaten eggs. Beat well.
- Add remaining ingredients and mix thoroughly.
- Chill the dough thoroughly.
- Divide into 2 parts and roll each to less than 1/4-inch thickness.
- Spread each rolled dough with the date filling and roll up.
- Chill overnight.
- Cut into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- Bake at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of shortening. Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly to make it easier to roll. If you want a touch of spice, add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough. You can also substitute the dates with dried apricots or figs for a different taste. Ensure to finely chop the fruits for even distribution.
Serving Suggestions
These date pinwheels are delightful served with a cup of tea or coffee. They also pair beautifully with Margaret'S Hot Fudge Sauce for a sweet treat. Consider serving them alongside a fresh fruit platter or some light cheeses for a balanced dessert spread. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet snack anytime.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pinwheels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the baked pinwheels in a single layer and then transfer to a zip-top bag. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Date Pinwheels contains roughly 1810 calories, with 13g protein, 321g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (90% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), and potassium (49% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1677mg per serving (73% 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 make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. After mixing the ingredients, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Chilling the dough overnight enhances the flavors and makes it easier to handle when you're ready to roll it out.
What can I use if I don't have shortening?
If you don't have shortening, you can use an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil as a substitute. Both options will impart a different flavor, but they will still yield delicious results. Just ensure that the butter is softened for easy mixing.
Can I add nuts to the filling?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can be a great addition to the date filling. They add a nice crunch and a depth of flavor. Just be sure to chop them finely so they blend well with the dates and don't overpower the filling.
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).