Grandmother'S Billy Goat Cookies
Grandmother's Billy Goat Cookies feature rich dates and walnuts with warm spices, creating a hearty, flavorful treat perfect for sharing with family and friends during cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix and cream margarine, sugar, and egg yolks until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the creamed mixture.
- Add vanilla, buttermilk, chopped dates, and chopped walnuts to the mixture.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto a baking sheet.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 15 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. You can also substitute half of the sugar with brown sugar for added moisture and depth. If you're short on walnuts, pecans or almonds work well too. Ensure your dates are fresh; if they're too dry, soak them in warm water for a few minutes before chopping. This will keep your cookies moist.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful as a snack or dessert, especially with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. They pair beautifully with Helen'S Chocolate Chip Pie for a sweet spread. For a festive touch, serve alongside Easy Custard Pie during holiday gatherings. Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for extra flair.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandmother'S Billy Goat Cookies contains roughly 1799 calories, with 59g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 150g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (119% of the Daily Value), iron (83% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (64% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1533mg per serving (67% 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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! While walnuts are traditional, feel free to use pecans, almonds, or even macadamia nuts for a unique twist. Just chop them to a similar size as the walnuts to ensure even distribution in the cookies.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are golden brown around the edges and slightly soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet, so avoid overbaking them for the best texture.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to mimic the structure of traditional flour. The taste and texture may vary slightly, but they should still be delicious!
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).