Lorraine'S Date-Oatmeal Cookies
Lorraine's Date-Oatmeal Cookies offer a delightful blend of sweet dates, hearty oats, and nuts, perfect for a cozy snack or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and brown sugar together.
- Add eggs and then incorporate the chopped dates.
- Mix in the dry ingredients: soda, flour, salt, and nuts.
- Stir in oatmeal until well combined.
- Optional: replace dates with two cups of Angel Flake coconut if desired.
- Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Do not overbake!
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use room temperature shortening to ensure it creams well with the brown sugar. If you prefer a healthier twist, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. Additionally, to enhance the flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract. If you're looking to change things up, try adding chocolate chips for a delightful contrast with the dates.
Serving Suggestions
These Date-Oatmeal Cookies are delightful on their own or served alongside a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. Consider pairing them with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced snack. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter, especially when served alongside other treats like No Frosting Zucchini Chocolate Cake or Eggless Lace Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them between layers of parchment paper in a zip-top bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave a cookie for about 10-15 seconds or place them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lorraine'S Date-Oatmeal Cookies contains roughly 43 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 496mg per serving (22% 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 other dried fruits instead of dates?
Absolutely! Dried apricots, raisins, or cranberries can be excellent substitutes for dates. Just ensure that any replacements are chopped into small pieces for even distribution throughout the cookies.
Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Just check that the other ingredients, like oats, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This can enhance the flavors and make it easier to scoop 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).