Gumdrops
Chewy, sweet gumdrop cookies with a delightful oats and coconut exterior, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth or sharing at gatherings. The combination of flavors and textures makes these treats appealing to all ages, offering a nostalgic and indulgent snack or dessert option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the shortening, brown sugar, sugar, eggs, and water together until well combined.
- Sift the flour, baking powder, soda, and salt, then gradually add into the creamed mixture.
- Stir in the oats and gumdrops until evenly distributed.
- Shape the dough into balls and roll each ball in coconut.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F until lightly browned, about 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half the shortening with butter. If you want to reduce sugar, you can use a sugar substitute that measures like sugar. Ensure to chop the gumdrops into smaller pieces for easier mixing. If you prefer a chewier texture, use quick oats instead of rolled oats. For a festive touch, add a dash of cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions
These gumdrops make a delightful snack on their own or can be paired with a glass of milk for a nostalgic treat. They also go well with coffee or tea, making them perfect for afternoon gatherings. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Kentucky Fruitcake during the holidays.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover gumdrops 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-safe bag. To reheat, place them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes, which will help restore their soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gumdrops contains roughly 278 calories, with 4g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% 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 gluten-free flour instead of regular flour?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the blend contains a binding agent, such as xanthan gum, to help the cookies hold their shape.
How can I make these gumdrops more colorful?
To enhance the visual appeal, consider using a mix of colored gumdrops or even adding food coloring to the dough before mixing in the oats and gumdrops. This will create a vibrant treat that's sure to impress.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky to handle, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to firm it up. Alternatively, you can add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a manageable consistency.
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).