Mamaw'S Fruit Cake Cookies
Mamaw's Fruit Cake Cookies are rich, flavorful treats packed with dried fruits and nuts, perfect for festive occasions or as a chewy, spiced snack for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the cherries and pineapple in wine while sifting together flour, allspice, cloves, and cinnamon.
- Add the soaked fruit and pecans to the flour mixture and combine thoroughly.
- Refrigerate the mixture overnight.
- Drop teaspoons of the chilled dough onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you're out of wine, orange juice can make a delightful substitute for soaking the fruit. Ensure your pecans are chopped evenly for consistent texture. You can also add a touch of vanilla extract for extra depth. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover fruit from dishes like Sugar Cookies Ii.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a delightful treat with afternoon tea. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa. Consider serving alongside other festive treats like Cottage Cheese Balls or Mom Beck'S Old-Fashioned Pound Cake for a varied dessert platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag, where they will keep for up to three months. To enjoy them again, thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mamaw'S Fruit Cake Cookies contains roughly 172 calories, with 2g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 6g 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 fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries and pineapples, but be sure to chop them finely and soak in wine to soften them. This will help achieve the right texture and flavor in the cookies.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make these cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend includes a binding agent like Xanthan gum for the best results in texture.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes. This should make it easier to drop onto the cookie sheet without losing shape.
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).