Hawaiian Cookies
Hawaiian Cookies are tropical-flavored treats combining fruit cocktail and pineapple with a soft, chewy texture, perfect for fans of fruity, sweet baked goods. They are delicious and versatile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and the fruit cocktail and crushed pineapple along with their juices; mix well.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a greased or parchment-lined cookie sheet.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown, about 15 minutes.
- Allow cookies to cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.
- Cookies can be frozen and will not harden or freeze solid; they can be eaten right from the freezer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, you can substitute half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. If you don't have fruit cocktail, diced fresh fruits like peaches or pears work well. For a tropical twist, consider adding shredded coconut or macadamia nuts. Ensure to mix the dough until just combined to avoid tough cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These Hawaiian Cookies are delightful on their own but make a fantastic addition to a tropical-themed dessert table. They pair beautifully with a refreshing glass of iced tea or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a slice of Banana Pudding(1930) for a nostalgic dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; simply layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy, no need to thaw; they can be eaten directly from the freezer for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hawaiian Cookies contains roughly 910 calories, with 2g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 940mg per serving (41% 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 fresh fruit instead of canned fruit cocktail?
Yes, you can substitute fresh fruits for the canned fruit cocktail. Just ensure to chop them into small pieces and adjust the juice quantity accordingly to maintain the moisture in the dough. This will give your cookies a fresher taste and texture.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is overly sticky, consider chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle. Alternatively, you can gradually add a little more flour until you reach the desired consistency, but avoid adding too much to keep the cookies tender.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
You can enhance these cookies by adding colorful sprinkles, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts to the dough before baking. Incorporating some grated lemon or orange zest will also add a festive, citrusy aroma that complements the tropical flavors beautifully.
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).