Miss Shirley'S Apricot Cookies
Sweet crescent-shaped apricot cookies with a rich cream cheese and margarine base, coated in powdered sugar, perfect for teatime or special occasions with fruity filling.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream margarine, cream cheese, sour cream, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Add flour and mix well to form dough.
- Refrigerate the dough overnight.
- Pinch off walnut-sized balls of dough.
- Roll each ball very thin in powdered sugar.
- Place 1/2 teaspoon of apricot filling on the edge of each circle.
- Shape the dough into crescent shapes enclosing the filling.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the best texture, ensure the margarine and cream cheese are at room temperature before creaming. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the margarine with butter. For a twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dough. These cookies can also be made with different fruit fillings like apricot or cherry for variety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat. They pair beautifully with Black Cherry Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider presenting them on a platter alongside other treats, like Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Cookies, for a varied dessert spread that will impress your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. This helps retain their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Miss Shirley'S Apricot Cookies contains roughly 286 calories, with 1g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 25g 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 a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?
While cream cheese provides a unique flavor and texture, you could experiment with mascarpone for a richer taste, or Neufchâtel for a lighter option. Keep in mind that the consistency may vary slightly, so adjust the flour as needed to maintain the dough's structure.
What can I substitute for margarine in this recipe?
Butter is the best substitute for margarine, providing a richer flavor. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. Just ensure any substitute maintains a similar texture for the dough to hold together properly.
How can I make the apricot filling from scratch?
To make apricot filling, combine dried apricots with water in a saucepan and simmer until soft. Blend until smooth, adding a bit of sugar or lemon juice to taste. This homemade filling can elevate your cookies and offer a fresher flavor compared to store-bought options.
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).