Judy'S Jan Hagel
Judy's Jan Hagel offers a crisp, nut-topped cookie with cinnamon and vanilla, perfect for holiday gatherings or tea time treats with a delightful crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Cream the butter and margarine together.
- Add sugar and beat well.
- Add the egg yolk and mix thoroughly.
- Sift together the flour, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture.
- Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Pat the dough evenly onto a greased 11 x 17-inch cookie sheet.
- Brush the top with diluted egg white and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
- Bake for 30 minutes until golden brown.
- Cut into squares while still warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using all butter instead of margarine. You can also substitute half of the flour with almond flour for a nutty twist. Adding a touch of orange zest to the dough can enhance the overall taste. If you prefer, try mixing in different chopped nuts or even chocolate chips for variety, similar to what you might find in Doug'S Favorite Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These Jan Hagel squares are delightful on their own but can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special treat. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea for an afternoon snack. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a light salad or as part of a dessert platter with Peppermint Fudge and other sweets.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the squares in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through, ensuring they retain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Judy'S Jan Hagel contains roughly 166 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 7g fat.
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 gluten-free?
Yes, you can make Jan Hagel gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend you choose measures cup-for-cup like regular flour, and it will work well in this recipe. Additionally, check your other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
How can I enhance the flavor of these cookies?
To enhance the flavor of Jan Hagel, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract alongside the vanilla. Toasting the nuts before adding them to the dough can also bring out their flavor. For a seasonal twist, a pinch of nutmeg or even a little ground ginger can elevate the taste profile.
What types of nuts work best for this recipe?
While the recipe suggests chopped nuts, you can use a variety of options. Walnuts and pecans are traditional choices that add great flavor and texture. However, you can also try hazelnuts or even pistachios for a different taste. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even distribution in the dough.
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).