Kris Kringles
Kris Kringles are delightful festive cookies with citrus flavors, dipped in nuts and topped with cherries, perfect for holiday treats and cookie exchanges.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and sugar; add beaten egg yolk, grated orange peel, grated lemon peel, and lemon juice.
- Beat well until mixture is smooth.
- Stir in flour and salt until combined.
- Form small balls about 1/2 inch in diameter.
- Dip each ball in beaten egg white, then roll in chopped nuts.
- Press half a cherry into the center of each cookie.
- Bake at 325°F for 10 to 15 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter in place of shortening. You can also substitute the orange and lemon peel with other citrus zest like lime or grapefruit if you prefer. If you don’t have chopped nuts on hand, crushed graham crackers or shredded coconut can be great alternatives for coating. Make sure to roll the balls evenly to ensure they bake uniformly.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own but also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a platter of other holiday treats like Banana Fritters or Noodles Ole. They can also be a great addition to a cookie exchange or holiday dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Kris Kringles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F for about 5-10 minutes to restore their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kris Kringles contains roughly 551 calories, with 27g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value) and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g 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 make Kris Kringles ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to two days before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together. Alternatively, you can also freeze the formed balls and bake them directly from the freezer, just adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of cherries on top?
If you prefer not to use cherries, consider topping the cookies with a piece of candied ginger, a chocolate chip, or even a small dollop of jam or fruit preserves for a different flavor profile. Each alternative adds a unique twist to the traditional recipe while maintaining its festive appeal.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The Kris Kringles are ready when they turn a light golden brown around the edges and feel firm to the touch. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary based on your oven. If they look too pale, give them an extra minute or two, but be careful not to overbake.
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).