Jelly Jewels
Jelly Jewels are colorful, nut-studded cookies with a touch of jelly, perfect for festive occasions or a sweet snack that appeals to both kids and adults.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a cookie sheet.
- Prepare the cake mix as directed on the package.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cups Crisco shortening, 2 egg yolks, 1 tablespoon milk, 2 egg whites, and 2 tablespoons water until well blended.
- Add ground nuts (1 1/4 cups) to the mixture and stir.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared cookie sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10 minutes or until golden.
- Allow cookies to cool slightly and then make a small indentation in the center of each.
- Fill the indentations with red or green jelly.
- Let the jelly set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using flavored jelly or incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter. If you don't have ground nuts, finely chopped oats can be a great substitute. Be sure to check the cake mix package for any specific preparation instructions, as brands may vary. For a unique twist, try adding chocolate chips to the batter for a richer taste.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful cookies are perfect for a tea party or holiday gathering. Serve them alongside a refreshing cup of tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with Lorraine'S Scalloped Potatoes for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, consider creating a dessert platter with assorted cookies and brownies for a delightful presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Jelly Jewels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes to restore their texture without melting the jelly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jelly Jewels contains roughly 878 calories, with 20g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 665mg per serving (29% 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 a different type of cake mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the original recipe calls for Duncan Hines Deluxe Yellow Cake Mix, you can experiment with chocolate or vanilla cake mixes for different flavors. Just be mindful that this might change the overall taste and texture of the cookies slightly.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make Jelly Jewels gluten-free, substitute the Duncan Hines Deluxe Yellow Cake Mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the ground nuts and jelly, are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the recipe.
Can I freeze these cookies after baking?
Yes, you can freeze Jelly Jewels! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
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).