James Beard'S Chinese Chews
James Beard's Chinese Chews are buttery, sweet cookies with a rich flavor and crisp texture, perfect for those who enjoy classic baked treats with a nostalgic twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the flour, unsalted butter or margarine, and brown sugar until the mixture is crumbly.
- Spread the mixture in a greased 8 x 16-inch pan.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful base, consider adding a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture. If you prefer a lighter texture, substitute half of the flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Make sure to mix just until crumbly to avoid overworking the dough. This recipe is versatile; you can incorporate nuts or chocolate chips for variation. Explore other Chinese recipes to complement these treats.
Serving Suggestions
These chewy treats are delightful on their own but can be paired with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack. For a creative twist, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with chocolate sauce. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter featuring other sweets, such as Java Fun or Halusky(Drop Dumplings).
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cooled chews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm, reheat in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or use the microwave for a few seconds, ensuring they don't become too soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of James Beard'S Chinese Chews contains roughly 1205 calories, with 12g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce or omit any additional salt in the recipe to balance the flavors. This will give your chews a slightly different taste, but they will still be delicious. Just be mindful of the overall salt content in your mixture.
What can I do if my mixture is too dry?
If your mixture seems too dry and crumbly, you can add a tablespoon of water or milk at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. Alternatively, you could melt a bit more butter to incorporate, which will enhance the richness of the chews.
How can I make these chews more festive for a party?
To make your Chinese chews more festive, consider sprinkling them with powdered sugar or drizzling with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk. You can also add colorful sprinkles or chopped dried fruit like cherries or apricots on top before baking for a pop of color.
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).