Gum Drop Cookies
Chewy, sweet gum drop cookies combine oats, coconut, and colorful gumdrops for a delightful treat perfect for parties, snacks, or holiday festivities.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Mix together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt, and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, cream together shortening, sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and dissolved soda.
- Blend the two mixtures together and drop by teaspoonfuls onto a lightly greased cookie sheet.
- Bake for 12 minutes and let cool for 2 minutes before removing from the pan.
- If the cookies flatten out too much, add a little flour to the mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, consider using chilled butter instead of shortening. If you want to reduce the sweetness, cut back on the sugars slightly or use a sugar substitute. You can also add nuts or dried fruits for added flavor. If the dough is too sticky, chill it for 30 minutes before baking. Remember to check the cookies a minute or two before the time is up to avoid overbaking.
Serving Suggestions
These gumdrop cookies are delightful on their own or served with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. They pair beautifully with the Delicious Three Cheese Appetizer for a fun snack platter. Consider serving them at a holiday gathering or cookie exchange, as their colorful appearance adds a festive touch to any dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover gumdrop cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through, or enjoy them cold for a chewy treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gum Drop Cookies contains roughly 1842 calories, with 24g protein, 284g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (56% of the Daily Value), protein (48% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2138mg per serving (93% 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 types of gumdrops?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match gumdrops or even use jellied candies for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the size is similar to maintain even baking. Experimenting with flavors can lead to a fun twist on the classic recipe.
What can I substitute for shortening?
You can substitute an equal amount of unsalted butter for shortening, which will add a rich flavor. Alternatively, coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free option. Keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly with these substitutions.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To make these cookies more festive, consider adding colorful sprinkles or using seasonal gumdrops. You can also drizzle melted chocolate on top or add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg for a holiday flavor. These small changes can elevate the cookie for special occasions.
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).