Gumdrop Coconut Cookies(Another Christmas Favorite Of The Seiter Children)
Chewy coconut cookies with colorful gumdrop candies and oatmeal, perfect for festive occasions and sweet tooth cravings, appealing to children and families alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the brown sugar, sugar, and butter or shortening until well blended.
- Add eggs, water, and vanilla; continue beating until smooth.
- Mix in the flour, baking powder, soda, and salt.
- Stir in the oatmeal, coconut, and diced gumdrop candies.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, consider using old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats. If you're out of gumdrops, diced dried fruits like apricots or raisins can work as substitutes. Adjust the sweetness by using half brown sugar and half coconut sugar for a different flavor profile. Ensure your butter is softened for easier creaming with sugars.
Serving Suggestions
These Gumdrop Coconut Cookies are perfect for holiday platters and pair beautifully with a hot cup of cocoa or coffee. Consider serving them alongside Aunt Rose's Hickory Nut Pie for a delightful dessert spread. They can also be a fun treat for kids' parties or as a festive gift for neighbors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gumdrop Coconut Cookies(Another Christmas Favorite Of The Seiter Children) contains roughly 291 calories, with 4g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 474mg per serving (21% 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 fat instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine or shortening for butter in this recipe. Each will give a slightly different texture, with margarine producing a softer cookie and shortening resulting in a firmer bite. Just ensure that whatever fat you choose is at room temperature for easier mixing.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Gumdrop Coconut Cookies, replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that your gumdrops are also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. This adjustment will allow you to enjoy the cookies without compromising on flavor or texture.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For additional flavor, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. A teaspoon of almond extract can also complement the vanilla. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans can enhance the texture while providing a delightful contrast to the chewy gumdrops.
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).