Irene'S Christmas Cookies
Festive and rich, these Christmas cookies combine dates, candied cherries and pineapple with nuts and warm spices, perfect for holiday gatherings and sweet celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the dates, candied cherries, candied pineapple, and walnuts.
- Cream thoroughly the butter and sugar.
- Beat in the eggs.
- Add sifted dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Mix in the chopped fruit and nuts.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake at 325-350°F for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, soak the dates in warm water for a few minutes before chopping. You can substitute the walnuts with pecans or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, increase the sugar by a quarter cup. Ensure the butter is softened for easier creaming with the sugar. This recipe can be adapted for gluten-free diets using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings and pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Consider serving them alongside a festive dessert like Creme De Menthe Parfait for a delightful spread. They can also be enjoyed as a sweet treat during a family movie night or packed in lunch boxes for a special surprise.
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 on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes, restoring their fresh-baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Irene'S Christmas Cookies contains roughly 1267 calories, with 23g protein, 218g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2062mg per serving (90% 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 make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can also bake the cookies, let them cool completely, and then freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw and enjoy them whenever you're ready!
What can I use instead of candied fruit?
If you prefer to avoid candied fruit, consider using dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots as a substitute. You can also use fresh fruit, but be mindful that moisture content may change the texture of the cookies. Adjust flour as necessary to maintain consistency.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To enhance the festive feel, consider adding some holiday spices like nutmeg or cloves along with the cinnamon. Additionally, you can drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or sprinkle some colored sugar on top before baking for a cheerful touch.
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).