Mincemeat Drops
Mincemeat Drops are delightful cookies with rich, spiced mincemeat flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion craving a sweet, fruity treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening; add sugar gradually and blend well.
- Add beaten egg; mix thoroughly.
- Sift together flour, salt, and soda; add to the creamed mixture.
- Fold in mincemeat and vanilla until well combined.
- If dry mincemeat is used, add 1/2 cup water and cook until water is absorbed, about 8 minutes; then cool.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
- Bake at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of shortening. You can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for added nutrition. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, increase the sugar by a couple of tablespoons. Remember to let the mincemeat absorb moisture if using dried mincemeat, as this will enhance the texture of your drops.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy Mincemeat Drops as a delightful treat with a cup of tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. For a festive touch, serve alongside Candy Pecans as part of a holiday spread, or gift them as homemade treats during the season.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Mincemeat Drops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, place frozen drops in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mincemeat Drops contains roughly 46 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 use fresh mincemeat instead of dried?
Yes, fresh mincemeat can be used in place of dried. If using fresh, reduce the liquid in the recipe slightly to avoid a soggy dough. The flavor will be more vibrant, and the texture may be slightly different, but the cookies will still be delicious.
What can I substitute for shortening?
Butter is a great substitute for shortening in this recipe, giving the cookies a rich flavor. You can also use coconut oil for a dairy-free option. If using butter, note that the cookies may spread more, so adjust baking time accordingly.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To make Mincemeat Drops more festive, consider adding chopped nuts or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. You can also drizzle melted chocolate on top after baking for a decadent touch. Dusting with powdered sugar can add a nice holiday finish as well.
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).