Gumdrop Cookies
Gumdrop Cookies offer a delightful combination of sweet gumdrops, crunchy pecans, and hearty oatmeal in a soft, chewy cookie. Perfect for festive occasions or a special treat, these cookies appeal to those who enjoy a mix of fruit-flavored candies and nutty flavors in baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the Crisco and white sugar.
- Add the brown sugar, eggs, gumdrops, and pecans; mix well.
- Fold in the oatmeal, flour, baking powder, and baking soda until combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a greased baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your Crisco is softened at room temperature before creaming it with the sugar. If you're out of pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor. If you prefer a chewier texture, reduce the flour by half a cup. These cookies can also be made with dates or raisins instead of gumdrops for variation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these vibrant gumdrop cookies with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee for a delightful treat. They make a fun addition to a cookie platter, especially during the holidays, and can be paired with classic American recipes like Lime Refrigerator Pie. For a festive touch, consider adding sprinkles or icing on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover gumdrop cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gumdrop Cookies contains roughly 174 calories, with 2g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% 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 other types of sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different sugars. If you want a deeper flavor, try using coconut sugar instead of white sugar. However, keep in mind that this may alter the color and texture of your cookies slightly.
What if I don't have Crisco?
If you don't have Crisco, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or margarine. This will provide a richer flavor, but the texture may be a bit different. Make sure to soften the butter before creaming it with the sugars.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend contains a binding agent, such as xanthan gum, to help achieve the right texture. This way, everyone can enjoy these delightful cookies!
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).